[Sheila]

Hi Sassy
A group of Breast Cancer survivors in my area formed a group and call ourselves Hooter Pals...we get together for informal meetings once a month, publish a list with what types of cancer, treatment and Dr's including surgeons, plastic surgeons, oncologists etc each has used. We are a telephone support group for each other and any newcomers who are diagnosed. We are in contact with the hospital wellness committies, and when a new woman is diagnosed, we send her info on our group and a nice little support gift bag of pink ribbon items. We are active in thew komen Race every year, raise about 10,000 a year for our local relay for life etc. We participate in health fairs etc, just to let others know we are available...we have even been in a few parades with a float and all. We had sweatshirts and tshirts made that look like the Hooters shirts only ours say Hooter Pals and are in pink.
We often have guest speakers including massage therapy, look good feel good by ACS, Reikki, a phychologist on dealing with emotional issues and even a few "party nites" where we all meet at a local pub and have a few....it is very informal, many times we all sit around and chat about treatments, whats new on the Horizon or just a question time for newly diagnosed...we have even had a few show and tell on reconstructions....breasts, nipples, tattoos, no tattoos, tram flams, diep proc., inplants etc...WE ARE NOT SHY!!!!
What started to be a group of 12 has grown to 40!
We have a Christmas Party every year, a swim day in the summer...just having fun and enjoying life through all of this...and our ages range from 27 to 70! When someone gets reconstruction, we throw a "boobie" shower for them with funny and sensible gifts...it is a great group! It helped me through many rough times!
Hope this helps