Cancer Society of New Zealand

Breast Cancer Support Service

If you have recently had a diagnosis of breast cancer you may like to speak to another woman who has "been there". BCSS provides trained support visitors who have all recovered from breast cancer. We seek to provide a support person of a similar age and type of surgery e.g. mastectomy/lumpectomy. Before or after surgery you may like to speak to another woman who has been in similar circumstances. Our support visitors can offer ongoing emotional & practical support based on personal experience. They will leave you with written information about life after breast cancer, including where to go for prosthesis (replacement breast forms), swimsuits and government benefits. They can also provide a temporary prosthesis if necessary.

The TSB Cancer Support Centre  in Lorna Street provide a safe & informal environment where you can come for advice and information. We have a good range of books & resources in our library that you can loan, as well as information booklets for you to take away.

More recently we have also established a hat library, so that Women undergoing Chemo can borrow a hat - either for everyday or a special occasion.

Monthly breast cancer support groups are held in both New Plymouth & Hawera, for more details on these or any other services please contact the Cancer Society on (06) 757 3006

We also have a bi-monthly newsletter 'Abreast of Life' which is specifically for people who have been affected by breast cancer.  Subscription to Abreast of Life cost $10 per annum, which includes membership to the Society.  New patients will recieve the first one free of charge.  They can also be accessed free of charge here.