About Us
Did you know there is a local support group in Norwich?
Keeping Abreast was established in September 2007 by patients Anna Beckingham and Beverley Birritteri and Breast Reconstruction nurse specialist Ruth Harcourt. They recognised there is a great need for women, both newly diagnosed with breast cancer facing the possibility of mastectomy, and also women further down the line who are also considering reconstructive surgery, to be able to meet and talk to other women who have been through similar experiences.
Who attends?
Meetings are held every other month and are open to women who are considering either immediate or delayed breast reconstruction. They are also attended by women who have already had surgery and those at various stages of econstruction, including nipple reconstruction and related procedures. Many of those attending are happy to speak openly of their experiences and show the results of their surgery. You are welcome to bring along a friend, husband or partner for support.
Light refreshments are provided.
What are the meetings about?
Although the plastic surgeon will have explained all the details of the surgery it can often be very difficult to absorb the information and formulate the questions you may want to ask. Many women have said they feel more at ease when they are able to ask questions and express their concerns to another woman.
We aim to have a different speaker at each support group meeting covering topics both directly related to breast reconstruction and also covering areas of general wellbeing.
We also aim to proactively fundraise to support women post operatively through their recovery.
Keeping Abreast meetings offer:
- An informal and relaxed atmosphere.
- The opportunity to meet other women facing the same issues.
- Direct access to women who have already benefited from surgery.
- Answers to your questions from people with recent experience of the issues you are facing.
- Informative talks from professionals associated with breast reconstruction and general wellbeing.
