NIU’s Office of Employee Assistance is hosting a breast cancer support group.

On the fourth Monday of every month, women can meet in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Center to discuss issues concerning breast cancer.

The group, which formed in 1991, discusses issues such as treatment, detection, prevention and attitude. Margie Cook, director of the LGBT Resource Center and participant in the support group, feels meeting with others diagnosed with breast cancer can be helpful.

“It provides a place to talk with other women,” Cook said.

Cook was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 40 after a routine check up, she said. Self checks, mammograms and early detection are an essential part of detection, Cook said.

“If you can catch it early, your chances are better. It could have been disastrous for me,” Cook said.

Cook said women should be informed on issues pertaining to breast cancer and she wants people to know those with breast cancer are not alone.

“There are sources of support available on campus,” Cook said.

Nancy Apperson, coordinator of the Employee Assistance program, feels the group can be extremely helpful.

“It gives them hope. Talking about it can be healing,” Apperson said.

Breast cancer survival rates have grown greatly over the years, but women should be aware of detection and prevention methods, Apperson said.

“This was a closeted disease,” Apperson said. “The group is particularly helpful to people when they are newly diagnosed.” Apperson said.