Published: October 28, 2008 04:08 pm            

OUR VIEW - Oct. 22

Good buddies

Breast cancer patients can learn more about the disease in a few hours on the Web than their grandmothers might have in months at the library. One of the things they discover is that early detection, combined with cutting-edge science, has improved survival rates dramatically - to more than 90 percent under some circumstances. Technology, in its various forms, has been a comfort and a blessing to these women and their families.

But science can't provide friendship or compassion, two of our most vital needs - especially in times of great need. That's where Bosom Buddies comes in. A small group of women, all cancer survivors, meets the second Monday of every month at the Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park for a brown bag lunch and frank talk.

"We let them know there's life after breast cancer," says group founder Lisa Mills of Live Oak, an eight-year breast cancer survivor. "And it helps, seeing someone who's been there and done that. We can share things the doctor's office won't tell them. That it's OK to feel depressed and it's OK to laugh."

These women do more than just talk, though. They take care of each other. When a friend is too sick to cook or drive herself to the doctor, a buddy will step in and help.

They also raise money for the fight against their common foe. (You've seen the pink ribbons around town? Many of those were sold as part of the group's fundraiser during Breast Cancer Awareness Month every October.)

The local chapter of Bosom Buddies has only been around since 2005, but what a difference it's made in the lives of area women. Mills cites the example of a single mother who, had it not been for the support of her "buddies," said she might not have made it. She did, however, thanks to her doctors and her newfound friends.

We're glad to have a group like Bosom Buddies in our community. You're a friend not just to one another, but to every one of us.

For more on Bosom Buddies call Mills at 386-208-3949.

        

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