The Bridge of Support program, set up in partnership by Counterpart (formerly BreaCan) and the Royal Melbourne Hospital, is providing support to women undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The program has been running since June 2010 at The Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Each week, Counterpart volunteers are available to talk to women undergoing chemotherapy, surgery or attending the outpatient clinic. The trained volunteers have each experienced cancer and by drawing on these experiences, they can make a remarkable difference to the health and well-being of women with a breast cancer.

This program recognises the need to go beyond just clinical care of women with breast cancer and provides a holistic approach to supporting women and their families throughout their cancer journey. Many women find that having someone to sit with them and talk with them makes the whole experience a little easier.

This is where Treasure Chest Charity plays another vital role, raising funds to allow Counterpart to continue its vital work, extending care to women at a difficult point in their cancer treatment.