Sweet Louise provides practical and emotional support for New Zealanders diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, helping them to live as well as possible, for as long as possible.
If you have been diagnosed with advanced (also known as metastatic/secondary/stage 4) breast cancer, please complete our membership form to register for support. Membership of Sweet Louise is free and open to all New Zealanders.
Advanced cancer means the breast cancer cells have spread from the first (primary) tumour to other parts of the body, most commonly the bones, the liver, lungs and the brain. A diagnosis of advanced breast cancer means that the cancer cannot be cured, but often it can be controlled, sometimes for many years.
Sweet Louise support and services for members
Sweet Louise members can access a variety of practical, emotional and social support services including:
- Support from a local Support Coordinator
- An annual allocation of vouchers worth $300 to spend on our range of complementary and practical services. These include meal deliveries, house cleaning, lawn mowing, wigs, massage and reiki. All complementary services are approved by our Medical Advisory Board.
- Member meetings offer peer support and the chance to connect with others in a similar situation. They also offer inclusive activities and interesting speakers presenting on relevant topics. Member meetings are available in locations throughout New Zealand.
- Member e-newsletter sent approximately every two months with resources, latest news, stories from our members and more.
- A wide range of information resources, both electronic and printed, including our Guide to life with advanced breast cancer
- Family Time services for members with dependent children, such as family trips or treats that help create special memories for families
- Referrals to and collaboration with other community organisations supporting families experiencing cancer
We currently offer services to those living with advanced breast cancer throughout most of New Zealand including Auckland and Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatu and Whanganui, Taranaki, Wellington and Wairarapa, Nelson and Marlborough, Canterbury, West Coast, Otago, and Southland.
Vouchers and service providers
Sweet Louise Members receive an annual allocation of vouchers worth $300 that can redeemed with one of our many Service Providers. Members receive their allocation of vouchers on the anniversary of their membership registration.
Member meetings
Member meetings offer peer support and the chance to connect with others in a similar situation. They also offer inclusive activities and interesting speakers presenting on relevant topics. Member meetings are available in locations throughout New Zealand.
Find out more
We hope you find useful information and make connections in the members hub and if you have any suggestions we will love to hear from you. Contact us on 0800 11 22 77, members@sweetlouise.org.nz or registered members can join our private member's Facebook group.