Are you a caregiver?
You might already be one. Here’s what that can look like.
Help a family member, partner, friend, or neighbor with everyday tasks
Coordinate or attend medical appointments
Manage medications or health-related needs
Provide emotional support, check-ins, or advocacy
Assist with household responsibilities or transportation
Step in regularly because someone relies on you
The Caregiver’s Role
An Overview for Family Caregivers
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, accounting for about 30% of new cancer cases each year, though men can also develop the disease. Caregivers often help coordinate care, provide emotional support, manage treatment side effects, and assist with recovery. Understanding the condition and knowing what changes to watch for can help caregivers feel more prepared throughout diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
Common signs and symptoms may include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or appearance, skin dimpling or redness, nipple discharge, pain, or swelling. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know
Treatment and Recovery Can Affect Daily Life in Different Ways
Breast cancer treatment may involve surgery such as lumpectomy or mastectomy, followed by additional therapies. Recovery can include fatigue, limited mobility, and emotional adjustment. Caregivers often help with transportation, household tasks, and recovery support.
Emotional Support Is a Key Part of Care
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring fear, uncertainty, and changes in body image or identity. Caregivers can provide reassurance, help facilitate conversations with healthcare providers, and encourage participation in support groups or counseling.
Long-Term Care May Continue Beyond Treatment
Even after active treatment ends, survivors may require ongoing monitoring, hormone therapy, or management of long-term side effects. Caregivers often remain an important part of maintaining health and supporting recovery.
Caregiver Action Network Resources
Caregiver Resources from Our Partners
Organization
Breast Cancer Information & Community Support
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Breast Cancer Screening & Support Resources
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Hereditary Cancer Risk & Support resources
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Breast Cancer Education, Support & Community
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Research & Support
SUPPORT
Breast Cancer Support Services
Offers free breast cancer support groups, peer connections, patient navigation, educational programs, and a national support line for people affected by breast cancer.
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Caring for the Caregiver: Exploring Medical PTSD and Caregiver Burnout
Explores the psychological effects of medical trauma and caregiver burnout, including challenges caregivers may face while supporting someone through cancer treatment and caring for their own well-being.
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Breast & Ovarian Cancer Support for Jewish Families
Online Article
Breast Cancer Information & Overview
Provides an overview of breast cancer, including risk factors, screening and diagnosis, cancer types, treatment options, reconstruction, survivorship, and research.
Explore Your Community Support Options
Personalized Guidance from Caregiving Experts
Available Monday-Friday from 8am – 7pm ET, our experts are ready with the personalized support, guidance, and assistance you need and deserve–for as long as you need it.
(855) 227-3640
24/7 Access to Hundreds of Helpful Resources
The National Caregiver Help Desk App, powered by Carallel, is full of bite-sized resources crafted to help you build skills, validate what you’re feeling, and help you get stuff done.
Use Access Code: CAN
Expert-Led Virtual Fireside Chats
These 30-minute virtual fireside chats address the complex and often difficult topics encountered by caregivers. Sessions are led by Matt Perrin, Carallel’s Director of Caregiver Engagement, and Sheila Schultz, a Carallel Care Advocate.
Community With Other Caregivers
Through CAN, Carallel Support Groups give you a place to ask questions, feel understood, and build confidence in your caregiving journey. Access is simple and available when you need it.
Connect with Certified Listeners
Looking for someone who really gets it? Get matched with trained listeners who share your lived experience—whether that’s caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, cancer, or another chronic condition.
Online Support Group on Facebook
Join our caregiver community on Facebook to connect with thousands of peers in a welcoming, supportive space.
Ask questions, share experiences, and receive advice any time of day.
