A French association dedicated to supporting women diagnosed with breast cancer is marking a significant milestone this year: its 50th anniversary. “Vivre Comme Avant” (Living as Before) has, for half a century, provided a vital lifeline to women facing the disease, built on the principle that no one should navigate this challenge alone.
Founded in 1975, the organization distinguishes itself by relying entirely on volunteer women who have personally experienced breast cancer. This peer-to-peer support model offers a unique form of understanding and encouragement, according to the association. “We have lived it…. We can help you,” is a core tenet of their approach.
In Castelnau-d’Estrétefonds, Magali Estrétefontaine and her partner Nathalie exemplify this commitment. Having both undergone treatment for breast cancer, they now dedicate their time to offering support and companionship to others facing similar circumstances. Their function, conducted in partnership with the local municipality, focuses on providing individualized support throughout the entire care journey.
Volunteers from Vivre Comme Avant offer visits to patients during hospital stays, including before and after surgeries like mastectomies and lumpectomies and during chemotherapy treatments. These visits provide a safe space for patients to express their anxieties, fears, and uncertainties, and to learn from the experiences of those who have successfully completed treatment. The association aims to foster hope and demonstrate that a fulfilling life is possible after a cancer diagnosis.
To facilitate connection and shared experience, Vivre Comme Avant is organizing regular support groups. The first meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 16th, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the CCAS, Maison Lagleyse. These groups, limited to 6-8 participants, will provide a confidential and supportive environment for women currently undergoing treatment or who have recently finished their protocols. Interested individuals can register by sending a text message with their name to Magali at 06 84 30 54 21.
Vivre Comme Avant currently supports approximately 8,000 women annually, bringing the total number of women assisted over its 50-year history to 400,000. The association operates in nearly 80 hospitals and clinics across France, and has earned recognition from both medical and institutional bodies for its pioneering work in oncology support. The organization’s president, Marie-Christine Diarra, can be reached at contact@vivrecommeavant.fr or by phone at 06 50 73 57 86.
The association’s work is also supported by partnerships with organizations like Unicancer and Roche, as well as pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, and Alvadiem.
