Rebuilding Lives by Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors with Health and Career Goals

Through implementing the Rebuilding Lives by Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors with Career and Health Goals project, we aimed to empower breast cancer survivors aged 30-55 by enhancing their phys...

Through implementing the Rebuilding Lives by Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors with Career and Health Goals project, we aimed to empower breast cancer survivors aged 30-55 by enhancing their physical and mental health and helping them build critical skills for societal and workforce reintegration. This project sought to address the unique challenges these women face post-remission, including physical recovery, mental well-being and re-skilling for labor market demands. Our key objectives were to increase survivors' resilience, employability, and overall quality of life. By conducting targeted research, we aimed to identify their specific needs, which would then inform a customized training program. Additionally, the project intended to foster social inclusion by building awareness and reducing the stigma often associated with breast cancer recovery. By collaborating with local and and international partner, we aspired to create a supportive network and sustainable resources to ensure survivors have access to ongoing assistance, skill-building and community support.

In the Rebuilding Lives by Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors with Career and Health Goals project, we implemented a series of key activities to address our goals. First, we conducted research on the challenges faced by survivors, using surveys and focus groups, to identify their physical, mental and career-related needs. This informed the development of a comprehensive training program in two main areas: physical and mental health (including exercise, mindfulness and resilience-building) and skills acquisition (covering digital skills, entrepreneurship and job market readiness). To promote awareness and inclusion, we organized a robust communication and dissemination campaign, creating online resources like motivational videos, articles and a project website - landing page part of One in 8 foundation website. Finally, we held multiplier events in both Bulgaria and Greece to share insights, engage local communities and build a support network. Throughout the project, partners collaborated closely, sharing expertise and monitoring progress to ensure impactful, sustainable outcomes for breast cancer survivors.

The Rebuilding Lives by Supporting Breast Cancer Survivors with Career and Health Goals project delivered impactful outputs and results. First, we developed a tailored training program in physical and mental health, which included modules on exercise, mindfulness and resilience, as well as skill-building activities focused on digital literacy, job readiness and entrepreneurship. This program was disseminated to survivors through in-person events and online resources, ensuring wide accessibility. Our research component produced valuable insights into the specific needs of breast cancer survivors, informing the training content and resulting in a comprehensive report that was shared with healthcare providers and support organizations. Additionally, we launched a project website featuring motivational videos, articles and practical resources, which facilitated ongoing support for survivors and promoted awareness within the broader community. Through local seminars and collaboration with partners, we fostered a supportive network for survivors, contributing to their reintegration and long-term empowerment.