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The Voice of People With Breast Cancer
Information
Living with Breast Cancer
Coping and Sharing the News
Sharing Your Diagnosis
Telling others you have breast cancer can be one of the hardest parts of a diagnosis. Many people worry about how loved ones will react, how much to share or when is the right time to say something. This section offers guidance to help you decide when, how and what to share.
Choosing When and How to Share your Diagnosis
There’s no right or wrong way to share your diagnosis. It is your choice what you share, when, and with whom. Some people find comfort in sharing the news with others and getting their support. Others choose to tell only a few close people. Both are okay.
Before you talk to others, think about:
- How you want to tell them: In person, by phone, email, or social media. You can share one-on-one or in a group.
- Who you want to tell: What family, friends, co-workers you choose to share the news with
- What you want to share: Do you want to share full details or of your diagnosis or just that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer? You can also think about if you want to share about your diagnosis once or share updates throughout your experience. Whichever you choose, remember that you do not have to share everything all at once.
You may also find that cultural or language differences play a role in how your family talks about illness. Some families may avoid discussing serious health issues openly, while others may expect to be very involved. If this feels different from what you need, that is okay. What matters most is what feels right for you.
If language barriers make the conversation harder, you do not have to navigate that alone. You may find it helpful to ask a trusted friend to help you share information, request interpretation services at your cancer centre, or look for translated resources to help everyone understand what is happening. Visit our Community Resources page on PatientPath for more resources.
The Canadian Cancer Society has a database that can be used to find local support services in your area. You can access it below:
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About CBCN
CBCN strives to voice the views and concerns of breast cancer patients through education, advocacy activities, and the promotion of information sharing.
Canadian Breast Cancer Network
185 Somerset St. West Suite 318, Ottawa, ON Canada K2P 0J2
Tel: 613-230-3044
Toll-free: 1-800-685-8820
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