Caregivers stand beside us, offering unwavering support and love. They are the steady hands that hold ours through uncertainty, the reassuring voices in our toughest times, and the often-unnoticed pillars of strength in the cancer community. They provide comfort and care while navigating their own emotional and physical challenges with quiet strength.
As we recognize National Caregivers Day, it is essential to highlight the importance of caregiving, provide resources to support them, and share meaningful ways to express gratitude.
My name is Jasmine, and I am honored to serve as the co-lead of The Breasties' DEI Caregivers & Grief Subcommittee alongside my dedicated peers: Veronica (lead), Monica, Linda, and Jovonsia. Together, we strive to empower and uplift caregivers, ensuring their vital contributions are recognized and valued. This piece, written on behalf of our Subcommittee, draws from both personal experiences and community insights to ensure caregivers feel as valued as they truly are.
The Vital Role of Caregivers
Caregivers provide essential physical, emotional, and logistical support to those facing breast and gynecologic cancers. Whether partners, family and friends, they stand by our side through life’s most challenging moments.
In October 2020, I was blessed to be pregnant with our first child. Unfortunately, this was overshadowed with a stage 1B invasive ductal carcinoma cancer diagnosis two weeks later. After my first surgery 16 weeks into pregnancy and a second just a month after giving birth, my spouse continued to provide unwavering support during radiation and hormone treatments.
More recently, I faced an unexpected recurrence, leading to a double mastectomy. Through it all, my husband has been my rock, ensuring our family is cared for while managing his own emotional burden. Caregivers like him often work tirelessly to make their support seem effortless, yet they, too, need care and acknowledgment.
One of the most overlooked aspects of caregiving is the emotional toll it takes. Watching a loved one endure cancer treatment is profoundly difficult, and many caregivers struggle silently with feelings of helplessness and stress.
Caregivers must receive the same level of support that they so selflessly provide to us.
Resources for Caregivers
To better support caregivers, we have compiled a list of valuable resources recommended by members of The Breasties community:
● Jacks Caregiver Coalition – A nonprofit dedicated to supporting male caregivers through every phase of their caregiving experience.
● Survive & Thrive Conference – A two-day event that brings together cancer patients, caregivers, and experts to share insights and experiences. (Veronica has attended and highly recommends this conference for its valuable discussions and connections.)
● Pretty Girls with Cancer – An organization connecting cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers through therapeutic sessions, wellness activities, and supportive services.
●True North Treks – Providing outdoor adventures to help young adults and caregivers affected by cancer find strength through connection.
● Live by Living – Free outdoor retreats for cancer patients and caregivers, offering a chance to recharge and build community.
● Surviving Breast Cancer – An online platform with caregiver guides and support groups tailored to those caring for loved ones with breast cancer.
● Dear Jack Foundation’s Breathe Now Retreats – Retreats designed for couples facing cancer, including dedicated programs for breast cancer survivors and LGBTQ+ couples. (Monica and her partner found this retreat incredibly helpful in navigating their shared experience).
● First Descents Adventure Retreats for Caregivers – Adventure experiences designed to help caregivers take time for themselves.
● Facing Our Risk– Improving lives of individuals and families facing hereditary cancer by providing resources and support groups.
● Co-Surviving Cancer by Katie Brown – A book that offers valuable insights and guidance for caregivers.
● Kits to Heart – Provides free, group art therapy sessions for adult caregivers and family members of individuals impacted by cancer. Participants are mailed a kit with art supplies to be used during therapy sessions. Groups are held virtually several times per year and are led by a licensed art therapist.
How to Show Gratitude to Caregivers
Expressing appreciation for caregivers is essential, but finding meaningful ways to do so can be challenging. Here are some thoughtful ideas gathered from The Breasties community:
● Pampering and Self-Care – Caregivers often neglect their own needs. Consider treating them to spa gift certificates, massages, or other pampering experiences.
● Gift Cards – A simple yet thoughtful gesture, gift cards to their favorite restaurants or coffee shops give caregivers a chance to enjoy a moment for themselves.
● Handwritten Notes – A heartfelt letter or note expressing gratitude can be incredibly meaningful. Acknowledge their efforts and remind them how much they are appreciated.
● Acts of Service – Small gestures like cooking their favorite meal, doing a household chore, or running an errand can ease their burden.
● Encouraging Self-Care – Remind caregivers that their well-being matters, too. Encourage them to take breaks, engage in hobbies, or seek therapy if needed.
● Time Together – Sometimes, the best gift is simply quality time. Plan a special day together, whether it's a nature walk, a movie night, or a simple coffee date.
It’s important to remember that caregiving comes in many forms. Some, like my husband, are primary caregivers, while others support from a distance or as part of a larger network.
Monica, a Breastie subcommittee member, emphasized the importance of recognizing caregivers who may not even see themselves as such. Her husband resisted the title of “caregiver” despite being there for her every step of the way. Many people don’t realize the weight of their role, but their impact is undeniable.
Embracing Support and Giving Back
Learning to accept help has been one of the most humbling lessons of my cancer experience. As someone who has always prided myself on being independent, leaning on others wasn’t easy. But during my second diagnosis, I realized that allowing my community to step in wasn’t just necessary—it was a gift.
Friends organized meal deliveries, entertaining my toddler and filling my home with laughter, and family members traveled miles to be by my side. Accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an act of trust, a way to let our loved ones be part of the fight, and a reminder that none of us have to face this alone.
Caregivers are the backbone of our strength, allowing us to stand tall and continue our fight. As we recognize National Caregivers Day, let’s commit to not only celebrating them but also ensuring they receive the resources, support, and gratitude they deserve.
To all the caregivers—thank you. Your love, sacrifice, and dedication do not go unnoticed.
If you’re a caregiver looking for support or a survivor wanting to give back, we encourage you to explore the resources shared in this article. Let’s continue to uplift and care for those who care for us. Your dedication and compassion make an immeasurable difference in our lives. #CaregiversDay #TheBreasties #ThankYouCaregivers
