Psychological Support for Women with Breast Cancer

Dear Supporter,

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the world talks about early detection and treatment. For the women we work with, there is another side to the story that is talked about far less: the fear, the sleepless nights, and the question of how to tell the children. Thanks to you, none of them had to face these questions alone over the past three months.

From July to October, our psychologists held 327 individual counseling sessions with women with breast cancer and their loved ones. Some sessions took place in person at the One in 8 Club in Sofia. Others were held by phone, Viber or Zoom, so that women living far from the capital, or too exhausted by treatment to travel, could still reach a professional when they needed one.

22 women took part in 2 moderated self-support groups, where they could speak openly with others who truly understand.

Our therapeutic workshops gave women a different language for emotions that are hard to put into words:

• Art therapy: 30 women took part in 4 sessions, where they used different art techniques to discover hidden strengths within themselves.
• Workshops for Emotions: 5 workshops with 30 participants.
• Psychological workshops: 52 women worked with techniques, e.g. therapeutic writing, storytelling, self-reflection in 5 workshops.
• Film therapy: 1 therapy, 8 participants.

"I attend art therapy and psychological workshops because I feel understood, accepted, and loved—just like being in a family. There is always compassion, a sense of shared experience, and empathy. The therapists work with great sensitivity, tailoring their approach to each one of us. They help me unlock capabilities I never knew I had—to express myself through speaking, writing, and creating. I feel at ease, comfortable, and warm—just like at home."

Asya, a breast cancer patient, Sofia

The need for this support does not end with a woman’s last treatment. Many women continue to struggle with fear of recurrence, changes in their bodies, and returning to work and family life. We continue to organize therapeutic activities every month to meet the needs of the patients.

Every donation, means another conversation, another workshop, and another woman who leaves feeling a little lighter. Thank you for being part of this.

With gratitude,
The One in 8 Team