Reach for Recovery is an organisation that supports women, as well as men, with breast cancer with practical and emotional support.
In South Africa, breast cancer reportedly affects about 27 in 100 000 women and accounts for 16% of cancer deaths amongst women.
The trained volunteers at Reach for Recovery are all breast cancer survivors and they visit patients in hospital post surgery at these hospitals in Bloemfontein: Pelonomi, Universitas Academic, Mediclinic and Rosepark.
The service is free of charge. The patient receives a bag to carry the drain in, with which they are discharged, a small cushion to put under the arm of the operated side and a booklet with information to help with the cancer journey – from how to cope with chemo therapy to where to buy a wig in Bloemfontein.
Through the Ditto project, patients without a medical aid can receive a silicon prosthesis to use where the breast has been removed.
People who know of a breast cancer patient who needs support, or who would like to join as a volunteer, can dial 051-522-1683.
