🌱Wednesday Wellness - Living Well Through Breast Cancer - 25Feb26🌱
Wednesdays are a great moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what helps you feel grounded. Today, we’re focusing on something close to many hearts in our community: living well with cancer at every stage of the journey. Living well doesn’t mean pretending everything is easy or good. It means finding small ways to support your body, mind, and spirit as you move through treatment, recovery, or long-term management. Here are a few gentle reminders that might we might be a helpful reminder for today: 💗 1. Your energy is precious, spend it wisely Some days you may feel strong and capable. Other days might call for rest, quiet, or a slower pace. Both are okay. Listening to your body without judgement is one of the most powerful forms of self-care. Try asking yourself: “What do I need most today?” And let the answer guide you. 🌤️ 2. Create small moments of calm Wellbeing isn’t built from big leaps. It often comes from tiny, consistent habits: A five-minute stretch A short walk outside A gentle cup of tea A favourite playlist A moment of mindfulness or gratitude Little things can anchor us when life feels big. 🧑🤝🧑 3. Stay connected to people who ‘get it’ Whether it’s this community, a close friend, or someone you’ve met along the way, having people who understand your lived experience can make all the difference. Sharing how you’re going honestly and openly can lighten the load and remind you that you’re not walking this path alone. 🍽️ 4. Nourish your body in the way that works for you Food can be comfort, fuel, and healing, but it doesn’t need to be perfect. Choose what supports your energy, your treatment needs, and your enjoyment. And be kind to yourself on the days when eating feels harder. 💬 5. Give yourself permission to grow and change Cancer can shift your priorities, relationships, and the way you see the world. That change can feel heavy or surprisingly clarifying. Wherever you are right now is valid. You’re allowed to reimagine your life, set new boundaries, or pursue new joys at your own pace. 🌷 A gentle reminder for the week ahead However this week is unfolding for you - softly, challenging, or somewhere in between - your wellbeing matters. You deserve care, compassion, and moments of ease. And while your path is uniquely yours, you never have to navigate it without support. We're here with you, every step of the way ❤️Friday Update - 1st August 2025
Hello and welcome to our Friday Update! Whether you’re new to the BCNA Online Network or a long-time member, we’re so glad you’re here. This safe space built on connection, understanding, and shared experience. Last month, we’ve seen powerful conversations, and practical advice shared across the community. From navigating treatment side effects to finding emotional support, your contributions continue to make this network a safe and empowering place for all. If you’re just joining us, we encourage you to explore the forums Get started here introduce yourself, or simply read along. And if you’ve been with us for a while, thank you for continuing to support others. 💬 Trending Online Network Discussions – July 2025 Bone and join pain side effects of chemotherapy Offering practical advice and emotional support for those newly starting chemotherapy treatment. From bad to worse, but getting better. Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) after previously having early-stage cancer. Kindly sharing story with the community, sparking conversation and shared experiences. Implant or Autologous Flap? Exploring reconstruction options post-mastectomy, with members sharing their experiences with implants versus DIEP flap procedures. WHO do I tell? Emotional challenges of disclosing diagnosis to loved ones. Members sharing advice on navigating conversations with family and friends. Letting go of blame - WHY did I get cancer? Inspired by a BCNA podcast, this discussion sparks meaningful dialogue about emotional healing and self-compassion. 🌟 BCNA Highlights – July 2025 Expanding the ‘Seat At The Table’ Program BCNA continued to grow its internationally recognised Consumer Representative Program Seat at the Table program , empowering people with lived experience to influence cancer research, policy, and care. This initiative ensures that real voices shape decisions that affect breast cancer patients nationwide. BCNA Consumer Representative Kym shares what she thinks Do you think it’s important that those with lived experience are involved in research? Global Advocacy for Metastatic Breast Cancer BCNA joined forces with Breast Cancer Now (UK) and Rethink Breast Cancer (Canada) at the Australian High Commission in London to launch a joint advocacy pledge. The united call to action urges governments and health systems worldwide to count and recognise people living with metastatic breast cancer; a critical step toward improving care, visibility, and support. Watch Together for visibility, equity, and support! Exciting News! BCNA is proud to welcome Red Energy as our inaugural Principal Partner. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to support all Australians affected by breast cancer. Together, we’re powering hope, connection, and change. Stay tuned for more on how this collaboration will make a meaningful impact. Male Breast Cancer Awareness In November 2024, Martin noticed signs that something was wrong with his health. Read his story via the link Humbled by the love and support 📅 BCNA Events BCNA Pink Lady Match – Sunday 10 August 2025 Join BCNA and major partner Red Energy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as the Melbourne Demons take on the Western Bulldogs in support of Australians affected by breast cancer. Watch video Pink Lady Match is back, and tickets are on sale now Event Schedule 1:30 PM – BCNA Tribute Field opens in Yarra Park 1:30 PM – BCNA merchandise available outside Gate 1 and between Gates 5–6 2:00 PM – MCG gates open; attendees take seats for entertainment and pre-match ceremony 3:00 PM – Players enter the field 3:20 PM – Match begins Carman’s Fun Run Sydney– Sunday 21 September 2025 🏃♀️ Location: Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont, Sydney Time: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM AEDT Event Options Half Marathon (21.1K) – Wave A: 7:15 AM | Wave B: 7:20 AM 10K & 5K Runs – Waves start from 9:00 AM Pink Lady 5K Walk – Starts at 10:15 AM Read more and register via the link Carman’s Fun Run 2025 - Sydney That’s a Wrap! Thank you for joining us for another month of connection, support, and shared strength in the BCNA Online Network. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our moderators via BCNA_Mod or email helpline@bcna.org.au . We’re here to help and always happy to hear from you. Until next time, take care and stay connected! BCNA_Mod Team
