Group of 'breast mates' look to support others in Newry area going through cancer

After being awarded a grant from Macmillan Cancer Support, support group ‘Breast Mates Newry’ launched last year after three friends realised how listening to the experiences of others helped them through their own cancer experience.

The trio - Ann, Catrina and Diane – first met in the chemotherapy room at Craigavon Hospital in 2020 after they were all diagnosed with breast cancer that year.

They felt that a specific group for people with, or recovering from, breast cancer would be hugely beneficial so others in the local area could benefit from this type of peer support. And after receiving a support grant from Macmillan Breast Mates Newry was formed and first met in June 2023.

They said: “We realised that there was nothing in the Newry area for anyone with a breast cancer diagnosis to catch up and have chats. We always said we would like to start up a group, so created Breast Mates. It is a support group for anyone who has breast cancer, those living beyond breast cancer and those living with secondary breast cancer.

“We have had great feedback from members on how much the group means to them. Personally, we would have loved this support when we went through our journey at first. We continue to support our founding member Diane, who is currently on a secondary journey. This group is like a lifeline to her.

“With the support from Macmillan we held our first meet and greet in June 2023 in the Canal Court, Newry, and now we meet once a month. We intend to grow and support ladies who are on this journey with flower arranging, art classes excursions, reflexology and other activities.”

Breast Mates meet every month at Newry Shamrocks, Pairc Esler, Newry, and the sessions are usually attended by more than 30 members, and the next get together is on Wednesday, 20 March, at 7.30pm.

The group has also held two successful fundraisers, an afternoon tea and a pink party night, as well as wreath making classes and a salsa dance session.

And their next event is a Bingo Night on Friday, 5 April, which promises an evening of fun, games and prizes, as well as DJ and bar. It starts from 8pm and admission is £10 on the door.

Maura McClean, Macmillan Cancer Support’s Engagement Lead in Northern Ireland, added: “I was delighted to help Breast Mates secure a £15k support grant from Macmillan to help them get up and running and grow their network of support for women affected by breast cancer in the Newry area.

“I have been supporting this group for around a year to get them to this stage and am so impressed by what I have seen so far. Currently there are no other cancer support groups in the area, and the work they are doing already is phenomenal. They are truly committed to growing their offer to local women.

“A cancer diagnosis can be extremely challenging and overwhelming, so if you think peer support may be of help to you, I would encourage you to join Breast Mates Newry, build new friendships and receive invaluable support from others who can truly relate to what you’re going through.”

Anyone affected by cancer in the County Down or County Armagh areas can find out more information about the Breast Mates Newry support on their Facebook page.

Macmillan is also at the end of the phone and online providing support for anyone affected by cancer who needs it. Call Macmillan’s free Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8-am-8pm, or visit macmillan.org.uk.