Community Guidelines

Welcome to the Breastcancer.org community, comprised of online discussion forums and virtual support groups. By following the guidelines below, you help ensure that our community remains a trusted place where individuals can connect, share, and support one another through every stage of their experience.

We are a community that treats all people with kindness and understanding. We ask that everyone using our discussion forums and participating in our virtual support groups act with these values in mind: 

Respect. The vulnerability of sharing our experiences brings us together and carries us through the most challenging times. The feelings and opinions of all people are honored and valued, even in disagreement.  

Inclusivity. Breast cancer does not discriminate, and neither does Breastcancer.org. All people are welcome here, without judgment, and no one shall be turned away or discouraged from participating. 

Empathy. Every person is worthy and deserving of understanding and compassion. People often arrive unfiltered and with raw emotions. Be mindful of how your words and actions will be received by others.

The following guidelines help keep everyone safe, respectful, and supported. When you signed up, you agreed to follow these guidelines. If you don’t, you might lose access to the forums.

• Be yourself. Let people know why you’re here.

• If you’re new, say hello and introduce yourself! Feel free to share your story if you’re comfortable.

• If you see someone new, welcome them!

• Don’t use your real name. Pick a special username.

• Don’t share personal details like your phone number, address, or email.

• If you want to share personal info with someone, use private messages — but be careful there too.

• Post, comment, or start a new topic when you’re ready.

• You can also join events, surveys, or meetups.

• If you want to post a survey or ask the community something for research, email community@breastcancer.org first.

• No bullying, name-calling, or harassment.

• No pretending to be someone else or lying about your experience.

• Everyone gets one account only — don’t make extra accounts.

• Share your own words and ideas.

• If you share something from somewhere else (like a picture or article), give credit to where you found it.

• Don’t post the same message in lots of places (this is called cross-posting).

• Don’t post ads or links to sell things.

• If you think your service could help others here, email community@breastcancer.org.

• Don’t collect information from other members without permission.

• Don’t upload anything that could harm someone’s computer.

• Don’t break any laws when using the forums.

• If you are feeling unsafe, thinking about hurting yourself, or need urgent help, please call 911 or 988 (or your country’s emergency number). Breastcancer.org and the moderators cannot provide emergency help.

Be kind. Be honest. Be safe. Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Our moderators are here to help keep the community positive, safe, and respectful. If you have any concerns or questions, message them or email: community@breastcancer.org.

Let’s help each other and make this a great place for everyone!

Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and meaningful space for all participants. By registering for a meetup, you agree to the following:

• Be Punctual: Please arrive on time, if possible, to help ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

• Minimize Distractions: Silence phones, mute notifications, and choose a quiet, comfortable space to help maintain focus.

• Speak from Your Experience: Use “I” statements to share your own story. Avoid using “you,” which can sound like giving advice or interpreting someone else’s experience.

• Share the Space: Make room for everyone to speak. If time is short, use the chat to share thoughts or ask questions. We aim for equal participation.

• Practice Respect: Be kind and open to different viewpoints. Please avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion.

• Protect Confidentiality: Do not take screenshots or recordings, and refrain from sharing others’ personal stories. If you’re in a public place, use headphones. Note: While we strive to maintain a safe environment, we cannot guarantee confidentiality. Please share thoughtfully.

• Respect Privacy in Contact: Facilitators will never share your personal details without permission. To connect with others, use Breastcancer.org’s Private Message feature.

• Manage Your Display Name: Feel free to adjust your name as needed for privacy and comfort.

• Peer Support, Not Therapy: These groups provide peer connection, not professional therapy. Insights shared by facilitators or members are not substitutes for medical or mental health advice.

• Accountability: Violating these guidelines may result in removal from the group at the facilitator’s discretion.

Thank you for being part of our community and helping to create a kind, caring environment. We’re grateful to support you.

Read Breastcancer.org’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.