The experience of a breast cancer diagnosis is immensely traumatic. Often patients are alone and in shock, which inhibits them from asking important questions or voicing concerns with their doctor. The "Breast Friends" campaign hopes to change this and ensure patients are supported at diagnosis.

This global campaign is about creating a greater understanding among patients, their carers and women in general of the importance of obtaining a complete diagnosis. Armed with accurate information, patients can be given the optimal treatments for their disease.

What is "Breast Friends"
As part of a worldwide, celebrity-driven campaign for breast cancer in October, the "Breast Friends" campaign focuses on the importance a "Breast Friend" has on women throughout a breast cancer experience.
It's all about friendship and having a supportive friend to be available at such a difficult time.
Anyone can be a "Breast Friend", from a partner, relative or close friend.

Breast Friends Photography book 2006
In March this year, world renown photographer, Rankin, held "Breast Friends" photo shoots in London and New York with celebrities such as Jerry Hall, Marcia Cross, Gerri Halliwell, Roseanne Arquette, Ronan Keating and South Africa's very own Zuraida Jardine. These photos were taken exclusively for the "Breast Friends" campaign and book. Inspirational images, testimonials, and advice from those involved provide insight, raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of getting accurate and complete information about breast cancer as early as possible.

To buy a limited copy, contact Bosom Buddies on 0860 BUDDIE

Zuraida Jardine supports "Breast Friends" campaign
South African DJ and TV personality, Zuraida Jardine is South Africa's very own "Breast Friends" ambassador. Zuraida's message is that anyone diagnosed with breast cancer, needs a "Breast Friend" to support them, to help ask the right questions and make sure they receive the best treatment for their type of breast cancer.

"I have been a Breast Friend to my long time drama coach and breast cancer survivor, Zia Garfield. We both represent South Africa in the Breast Friends book, Extraordinary friendships through breast cancer. I would like to encourage all women diagnosed with breast cancer and all her friends and family to know that she needs a Breast Friend to give her strength and support to make the right decisions at diagnosis", says Zuraida.

Zuraida joined Biking for Breast Health in October 2006, where she shared her "Breast Friends" message of support and the importance of early diagnosis.

Zuraida and Zia's advice
"Confide your fears and all the other emotions that you go through to your Breast Friend. Having someone to lean on and to love is priceless."

International "Breast Friends"

UK
Geri Halliwell's advice
If you have any breast health concerns, don't delay in getting yourself checked out; go to the doctor immediately. Women by their very nature are reluctant to out themselves first, but when it comes to your health, you have to!
Gerri is an international recording artist and patron of Breast Cancer Care, a UK breast Cancer charity

Ronan and Annette Keating brother and sister
"Stay strong and get your support from your family and friends, but don't forget you can also find a "Breast Friend" in a local support group, breast cancer charity, breast care nurse or your doctor."
Ronan is an international recording artist and breast cancer campaigner in Ireland. Annette is a Breast Cancer nurse at the Marie Keating Foundation in the UK.

USA
Rosanna Arquette's advice
"It's important to have a Breast friend to take care of you and help you be positive, be brave, get love and support and do all you can to fight it."
Roseanne is an award winning Hollywood actress. Her mother had breast cancer.

Marcia Cross and Rosemary Moritz's advice
"Be there for your friend and make sure she feels your love and concern. Knowing that those around you have compassion for what you are going through helps impart the strength needed to fight the disease."

Jerry Hall
"My twin sister had breast cancer so I know just how much support women need. We did all kinds of things together. I wanted to distract her, but also keep her focused on her treatment and getting better."
Jerry is an international model and global breast cancer campaigner who lives in the UK