Resources to help support and inform

We have learnt that it is often easier for a woman if we can call her first, once she has given her consent.

We're from different races, different religions, different beliefs and backgrounds, but we feel supported, feel free and connected.

I have been able to speak about things that I really hadn't been able to speak about to anyone else. I'd been given permission to feel bad; I didn't have to feel brave with these people (Counterpart).

I understand now that having lived through a life threatening illness I can offer something valuable to other women - through listening, understanding and acknowledging their feelings - that can be very valuable to others.

One of the most difficult things to deal with (after a cancer diagnosis) is what to do next? Where do I go from here to help myself stay well?

For me I can't pinpoint why I volunteer, but if sharing my story can help someone just once then I'm happy.

I think as a volunteer at Counterpart, I offer other women hope. I think we offer a guiding hand to empower women to make their own decisions and to help bring back a sense of control at a time that can be very isolating.

I believe the satisfaction i feel with my treatment is largely attributed to the information and support I got from Counterpart

Great to see an effort being made to collaborate with a range of groups, support services and providers.

The day generated a warm connectedness and safe nurturing environment for the group of women who all have an experience of breast or gynaecological cancer, in a rural environment.

The presentation was good but I really enjoyed connecting with the other women around me - chatting about 'our story'

Meeting other women who are 'walking the walk' - while professionals say they understand how we feel and although they display empathy, this is on a different level.

Counterpart's session (the Two of Us) was valuable because it provided an outlet for people to express concerns and gave partners an opportunity to meet other partners.

The Bridge of Support has been an excellent initiative, bringing the supportive approach of Counterpart to where the patients most need it.

"After treatment the body and self are a bit battered and being in such a positive place (reflexology session), enhanced my feelings of self worth and esteem."

Being able to discuss difficult issues openly and light-heartedly was a huge relief for me and helped me to feel 'normal' again.

After treatment the body and self are a bit battered and being in such a positive place (reflexology session) enhanced my feeling of self worth and esteem.

It is always so validating to hear other women with cancer talk about their experiences - they provide strength, insight and an opportunity to reflect.

For the first time I felt I was no longer alone. It was the first time I have sat in a room with other women with the same problems, emotions and experiences as myself.