For Immediate Release                                             
October 16, 2005

For Further Information:                                            
203-857-7304, cancersurvival@aol.com

Breast Cancer Survival Center To Present Retreat For Mothers

A diagnosis of breast cancer is traumatic for any woman. But the diagnosis can be equally traumatic, though in a different way, for their mothers.

The Breast Cancer Survival Center, the only direct-service not-for-profit program in the state of Connecticut exclusively devoted to providing post-treatment education and support for breast cancer survivors and their families, will present a one-day retreat for mothers of adult daughters who have been diagnosed with breast cancer on Saturday, November 12, in Norwalk.

The retreat is called, “I Wish It Had Happened To Me,” and will allow mothers to share their feelings and fears and receive mutual support in a confidential, nurturing environment.

Norwalk resident Carol Frank’s daughter Lisa is a 2-time breast cancer survivor, and her story mirrors countless other moms who have long suffered through this ordeal alongside their daughters.

“Our journey began in September 1998 when Lisa was first diagnosed at age 36.  She underwent a lumpectomy ,followed by chemo, radiation and 5 years of tamoxifen. During this period, family and dear friends helped to get us through this nightmare and roller coaster of emotions.

“In 1998 and for the following 5+ years, I could not find support groups for mothers of adult daughters with breast cancer. 

“Two weeks short of 6 years, and  with only a few pills of tamoxifen left, we were to start again. Again the same side but this time there were some positive nodes so more radical treatment was needed.  Lisa through it all was and is a great inspiration to her family and all her friends, both survivors and non survivors, and in many ways handled it far better than we did.

“Even though your friends are there for you,” Carol says, “in the dark of the night when your thoughts take over, you need something else to help deal with your anger, your ongoing fear of every ache and pain she experiences, and always that question of "why her?".  You need to know you are not alone.

“The Breast Cancer Survival Center heard my cry for help and this November 12th we will have our first retreat here in Norwalk for mothers of adult daughters with breast cancer.  I urge all mothers to attend; we all need to support this group that is here for us.”

The mothers’ retreat will be from 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church on the Green in Norwalk.  A pre-registration fee of $35, which includes continental breakfast and lunch, is required before November 5, 2005.  Registration is limited, so sign up early to guarantee a place.

For further information and a registration form, call 203-857-7304, e-mail BCSC at cancersurvival@aol.com, or check our website, www.breastcancersurvival.org.

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