Organizations and Resources for Young Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Young women living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) face unique issues that require a specialized focus. These are some great resources for information and support:

Our Metastatic Navigator is full of information on living with MBC and includes a list of targeted resources. You can also search our online ResourceLink database, which includes hundreds of national and local resources.

Advanced breast cancer community, developed by Novartis Oncology, has stories of women living with MBC, resources for caregivers and an online support community.

BCMets.org is the largest online listserv providing support and information for women living with MBC, their families and friends.

Jack & Jill Late Stage Cancer Foundation helps families spend quality time together while managing an advanced stage illness. Their WOW! Experience is free of charge and can be as simple as going to the beach or as grand as going to Disney.

MBC Alliance, a group of breast cancer nonprofits (including YSC) and industry partners, seeks to improve the lives of those living with MBC and their families by increasing awareness and education, advancing policy and coordinating research funding focused on metastasis.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Network (MBCN) is a national independent advocacy group giving people with MBC a greater voice in the breast cancer community and fighting for the development of life-extending treatments.

Metavivor raises awareness of MBC and the need for more MBC research funding. It also funds MBC research.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal loss of income protection program. Eligibility is decided case by case. A “disability” must be proven in order to qualify. Disability means a condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, so MBC is included. If awarded, payments begin at sixth months from the date of determined disability. MBC qualifies as a disability, and you can apply online.

Compassionate Allowance expedites the SSDI claim process. Certain disabling conditions, including MBC, receive a decision within three weeks. Funds are distributed in the same manner as regular SSDI (6 months from date of determination). Documentation from your doctor will be required.

Take advantage of these metastatic-focused resources, and let them be supportive to you and your family. Send us an email and ask for help if you need it.