At 59, Marialuisa from California has learned firsthand how vital peer support can be for those navigating metastatic breast cancer (mBC). She recalls a difficult experience when advocating for herself about treatment side effects:

“I was having really bad side effects from my meds. I learned from my support groups that I could ask to lower the dosage or change the schedule, so I did. She tells me, ‘I am the breast specialist here and I know how this medicine should be taken!’ It made me feel small, and I did not push the subject again.”

Her experience underscores the importance of empowering patients to ask questions and feel heard by their care teams.

Marialuisa also points out that caregivers deserve their own safe spaces for support:

“I am not convinced that having my caregiver in the same group as me would be something that either of us would like. I would not be able to express myself. I would think [my caregiver] would want his own space.”

Most importantly, Marialuisa celebrates the transformative power of connecting with others who share her journey:

“Peer-to-peer support has been instrumental in giving hope and inspiration to many individuals and myself. Nothing better than learning from others that have lived it and continue to live it…Mentoring helps those newly diagnosed. Peer-to-peer support for the caregivers would also benefit them.”

Support Our Sisters: Empowering Patients and Caregivers Through Connection

Marialuisa’s insights embody the mission of Support Our Sisters, which uplifts the lived experiences of women with mBC and the caregivers who support them. By valuing patient voices, the program highlights the importance of peer-to-peer networks, mentorship, and culturally sensitive touches—from the colors that represent the community to the spaces where patients and caregivers can express themselves freely.

Through these connections, Support Our Sisters provides not just information, but also inspiration and the reassurance that no one faces this journey alone.

Learn More

Marialuisa’s story reminds us of the power of shared experiences and the need for respectful, inclusive care. To explore more stories like hers, find peer support, or join the Support Our Sisters network, visit SupportOurSisterswithmBC.org.