Neonjade

My momma sent me a round robin email this morning with a picture that I had to share.

While I appreciate the cuteness, I appreciate that it got me to thinking about the relationship between writing and breast cancer more.

2002 study shows writing helps breast cancer victims deal with their situation with more confidence and hope.

A study of 60 women with early stage breast cancer was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (Vol. 20, No. 20). It found that women who have avoided thinking about their condition help themselves by writing about the positive effects of their experience, i.e., becoming closer to family or friends, clearer priorities, etc. Women who were not in avoidance helped themselves by writing about all of their emotions: good, bad, and indifferent. A third group writing the facts of their experience, a diary of findings and treatments, experienced no benefit.

Therapeutic effects of writing are well documented for many kinds of trauma and depression, so the study results should be no surprise. From a CNN article about a man with severe PTSD helped with writing therapy:

“Dozens of studies have found that most people, from grade-schoolers to nursing-home residents, med students to prisoners, feel happier and healthier after writing about deeply traumatic memories, says James Pennebaker, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at the University of Texas and leader or co-leader of many of the studies.”

Some survivors show generosity of spirit and courage by using writing to help others, as well as themselves.

• Blogs by breast cancer survivors:
• MyBreastCancerNetwork.com (large collection of blogs, message boards, and information)
• Sylvie Fortin’s Brest Cancer Victory
• Kathy-Ellen Kups: Life with Breast Cancer
• Archives of a Breast Cancer Survivor: Breast Cancer Photo Blog
• Books by breast cancer survivors:
• Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor’s Soul: Stories to Inspire, Support and Heal (stories from survivors and their family members) – Amazon Link
• Archive of a Breast Cancer Survivor, by Adriene Hughes – Lulu Link

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Help raise awareness and funds to combat breast cancer by writing.

• Write a post to spread the word like My Opera
• Sponsor a “write-off” – like Laura Anderson did last year
• Sponsor or join a contest like WoW-WomenOnWriting.com
• Turn your web page or publication pink, like The Huntsville Times and include an interview with a survivor to spread hope.
• Write a note to your Government representatives requesting higher priority in breast cancer prevention and cure funding.

Have a recommendation for survivors and those that would like to aid them? Please share by comment below or contact form.

Many blessings to you and thank you.