Damita Miller-Shanklin

Breast Cancer can affect each of us at one time or another. In speaking, with women who are survivors, after the shock of the diagnosis, the journey of survival begins. Decisions have to be made based on the women’s specific type of breast cancer. Everyone has a different experience. The journey is hard for families, friends and the women who are going through it. 

Resources for black women seem to be very limited. In my research, it was difficult finding support groups that allow black women to have a safe place to discuss their journey and receive information that will help in their healing. Below, you will find some resources that may help if you are looking for information. Not all of the resources are local but they offer general information you can use.

1. Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC): Based in Austin, BCRC offers a wide range of support services including a specialized group called Pink Table Talk specifically for Black women. They provide free support groups, navigation services, and resources for women facing breast cancer in Travis, Williamson, Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell counties​ ( UT Health Austin) and Breast Cancer Resource Center of Texas
2. 
   TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance: This organization focuses on addressing the unique challenges Black women face in breast cancer outcomes. Although not local to Austin, it provides virtual resources and support, including community engagement, advocacy, and educational content for Black women nationwide ​(TouchBBCA).

      3. UT Health Austin – Breast Cancer Support: UT Health Austin provides a   comprehensive list of local resources, including support from organizations such as the Breast Cancer Resource Center and the Capital of Texas Team Survivor, which offers free wellness and exercise programs for survivors​(
UT Health Austin).

4. The Sisters Network- The Sisters Network is a national organization. They are committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community. They do have an Austin Chapter. 

These groups offer both local and virtual support tailored to Black women, providing a network to help navigate the challenges of breast cancer.