Here for the Girls, Inc. (H4TG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit improving the lives of young women affected by breast cancer (diagnosed under age 51). We offer social-emotional support through services that provide personal connections and a shared experience among our members. Our research-based support model focuses on the overall well-being of our members and delivers our services through a non-clinical, peer-based approach. The result is an inclusive community based on equity and cultural humility that cultivates a sense of belonging from diagnosis, through treatment, and beyond.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide and can result in psychological distress, especially in young women. Young women face many different challenges compared to their more mature counterparts, and these challenges can impact them far beyond diagnosis and treatment.
Here for the Girls treasures “LOVE” above all and is committed to a culture that celebrates all people regardless of their ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, and sexual orientation. We promote human rights for all through mutual respect and acceptance of differences without biases of any kind
When someone hears the words “you have cancer,” finding support related to emotional and social resilience is crucial in facing the journey on their own terms. To help meet that need, H4TG offers a variety of opportunities for young women with breast cancer to connect and share with others traveling the same difficult path.
One thing I wish I'd had was someone who understood what I was going through or understood what the doctor was saying. I really never understood what they were saying. I mean, I got it, I have breast cancer and it was pretty bad, but all that other stuff, I had no clue what they were telling me.
This is a lifelong journey. Ringing that bell is a significant moment for us and it pretty much solidifies the end of a really rough treatment process. However, it does NOT mean that the fight is officially over. Celebrate each achievement (wine and cake are always nice) and then be there to help them prepare for the next phase in life.
Don’t ask what you can do, look around and see what she hasn’t been able to get done herself. Anything you do will be appreciated, but it’s very hard to come up with things on the spot. Mowing the lawn, doing the laundry, unloading the dishwasher -- they are not glamorous, but so necessary.
H4TG was a big impact for me. The very first meeting I attended was the day before I had my double mastectomy. I met women in all stages of the journey and kept thinking: I need to remember this. Their faces, their story.
I didn’t join until about five years out. There I found survivors that understood and listened to my concerns. (I found) that someone was beside me and understood my feelings.
Take the time to consider your options and don’t allow anyone else to influence you! Make your own decisions.
Although I'm outspoken, during my diagnosis I told very few people. H4TG has given me a voice. I am now able to share about my journey without feeling as though I have to hide my feelings or my fears. H4TG has also allowed me to say NO to some things, allowing me time for me! But they also gave me strength to say YES to speaking, travel, and doing things that before I would have passed on. They allowed me to see that my time is NOW!
One Boober! told me hey, if you feel tired, just sleep it off. No one expects a spic-and-span home, freshly baked bread, and a buffet for dinner! Not only did I laugh, but I needed someone to tell me that I can only do as much as I can, and that is okay.
We need you more than ever! Help us provide social + emotional support to young women with breast cancer.
A huge THANK YOU to all the businesses that are fundraising for us this month in honor of #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth! They are going beyond awareness and into action to support young women with breast cancer. We call that "Going Beyond Pink," and we are so grateful to all of you and to all our community partners who fundraise for us throughout the year - you make our mission possible.
Run for the Hills - Race Results (Click here)
