WELCOME TO #BCSM!

We’re so glad you’re here. The #BCSM tweetchat started with a simple question, “How can we use the incredible potential of social media to help empower women with breast cancer during and beyond treatment?” That was one of the first discussions Alicia and I ever had after meeting each other on Twitter. Then on July 4, 2011 we opened our first chat with that question. Since then we’ve had more than 800 hours of dedicated conversation about breast cancer, from the myths about mammograms and metastatic disease to imagining a health care system that would be equitable for all. We’ve talked about how treatment and its lingering sides effects impact life, love and work. And we’ve barely scratched the surface of issues that need addressing.

So the next question,“Why a website?”

Most build a website then go to Twitter to promote it. We’ve done just the opposite. #BCSM is true grass roots advocacy. The increase in participants, responses, input and energy made the website necessary. Simply put, we’ve grown into this. We have absolutely no intention of reinventing the breast cancer wheel and duplicating the work of other breast cancer organizations. But we have every intention of reshaping how social media can be used to empower women affected by cancer. We hope the site will further expand the incredible community you’ve all helped build on Twitter with the same authenticity, compassion and intelligence you’ve demonstrated on the chats. We have many plans and even more ideas! Watch for guest posts from patients, physicians, caregivers, and advocates. Look for information and guidance. And just like with the tweetchats, we’ve barely scratched the surface of topics we need to discuss. Please send us your suggestions and feedback using the Contact Form. We want to hear from you!

~Jody, #BCSM Community Co-Founder