Founded in 1999 by Melodie Wilson Oldenburg, the nonprofit ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis provides free, personalized information and one-to-one support to those with breast cancer and their loved ones. ABCD’s (5775 N. Glen Park Road, Glendale) volunteer mentors have been affected by cancer and help those currently dealing with breast cancer. Match Mentors are paired with participants not only on diagnosis, treatment plan and age, but also on profession, personal interests and other personal matters. Resource Mentors help ABCD stay on top of services that are helpful to those experiencing breast cancer. Each mentor completes 12 hours of training and does not give medical advice or recommend physicians, hospitals or treatment methods. Instead, mentors provide support, information and practical help to people throughout southeastern Wisconsin. In addition, ABCD’s helpline (414-977-1780 or 800-977-4121) operates six days a week.
Since ABCD’s founding, more than 10,000 personalized, one-to-one services have been provided. In addition, through collaboration with others and community outreach/education, the organization has touched the lives of thousands of others.
“We started with 20 volunteers and now have nearly 600,” says ABCD Executive Director Ginny Finn. “Our volunteers—mentors, ambassadors, board members and just general helpers—have an extraordinary commitment to other human beings. Extensive research now indicates that patients who feel emotionally and socially supported are more likely to complete their treatment and, generally, have a better prognosis. Compassion has a clinical benefit.”
Ongoing and seasonal volunteer activities are always available and those interested should contact ABCD at 414-977-1780 or abcdinc@abcdmentor.org. Anyone who has had breast cancer or who has had a close experience with breast cancer can become a mentor. Donations needed are copy paper, large paper clips, medium binder clips, notepads and restaurant gift certificates for silent auctions. Those interested in volunteering or donating can contact Judy Mindin, communications director, at 414-977-1786 or judy@abcdmentor.org. For more information, visit abcdbreastcancersupport.org.
