The power of storytelling to build community and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors
Abstract
Background: The BRIDGE community focus group was designed to support and empower current and former Black breast cancer patients. The overarching goals of the focus group were to provide a mechanism for participants to amplify their voices through storytelling, foster healing, and establish a supportive community. Additionally, the research team aimed to gather qualitative data on social support, treatment adherence barriers, interactions with medical providers, and experiences with racism within and outside of the healthcare system.
Methods: The focus group consisted of six sessions, each with a specific agenda and activities. Participants were encouraged to keep journals throughout the program. Session-specific activities were designed to encourage self-reflection, exploration of personal identities, and discussion of fears. These topics were explored through activities such as role-play, storyboards, and jewelry-making. Each session ended with a unifying affirmation and opportunity for fellowship.
Results: The program provided insights into the multi-level concept of support and its impact on breast cancer outcomes. Participants discussed the positive aspects of familial and community support but identified several areas where system and structural supports may have improved their outcomes. After completing the sessions, women reported an improvement in their overall self-actualization and purpose—with several describing the program as ‘life-changing’. Notably, the focus group facilitated deep connection and friendship among participants and improved general wellness.
Conclusion: The focus group created a safe environment where participants felt empowered to express their emotions, address challenges, and dismantle fears related to breast cancer mortality. Overall, this storytelling focus group showcased the significance of amplifying the voices of historically marginalized groups, providing support, and fostering community. The insights gained have the potential to inform future interventions and support services for Black breast cancer survivors, addressing their unique needs and challenges and ultimately improving cancer health equity.
Keywords: Breast cancer, health equity
Keywords
breast cancer, health equity
The power of storytelling to build community and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors
Background: The BRIDGE community focus group was designed to support and empower current and former Black breast cancer patients. The overarching goals of the focus group were to provide a mechanism for participants to amplify their voices through storytelling, foster healing, and establish a supportive community. Additionally, the research team aimed to gather qualitative data on social support, treatment adherence barriers, interactions with medical providers, and experiences with racism within and outside of the healthcare system.
Methods: The focus group consisted of six sessions, each with a specific agenda and activities. Participants were encouraged to keep journals throughout the program. Session-specific activities were designed to encourage self-reflection, exploration of personal identities, and discussion of fears. These topics were explored through activities such as role-play, storyboards, and jewelry-making. Each session ended with a unifying affirmation and opportunity for fellowship.
Results: The program provided insights into the multi-level concept of support and its impact on breast cancer outcomes. Participants discussed the positive aspects of familial and community support but identified several areas where system and structural supports may have improved their outcomes. After completing the sessions, women reported an improvement in their overall self-actualization and purpose—with several describing the program as ‘life-changing’. Notably, the focus group facilitated deep connection and friendship among participants and improved general wellness.
Conclusion: The focus group created a safe environment where participants felt empowered to express their emotions, address challenges, and dismantle fears related to breast cancer mortality. Overall, this storytelling focus group showcased the significance of amplifying the voices of historically marginalized groups, providing support, and fostering community. The insights gained have the potential to inform future interventions and support services for Black breast cancer survivors, addressing their unique needs and challenges and ultimately improving cancer health equity.
Keywords: Breast cancer, health equity
