Here For the Girls Expands Cancer Support Services
The Virginia-based non-profit now offers counseling to caregivers and family members of young women with breast cancer.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Cancer
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Here For the Girls provides specialized support services to women under 40 diagnosed with breast cancer. The organization has recently expanded its offerings to include counseling sessions for patients, their families, and caregivers.
Why it matters
The organization was established to combat the sense of isolation often felt by younger women following a breast cancer diagnosis. By broadening its support network, the group aims to address the emotional needs of the entire patient support system.
There are more than 13,000 breast cancer cases reported annually among women under 40. The organization currently provides services to women residing in 47 states.
The players
Here For the Girls
This non-profit organization provides peer support and specialized resources to young women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Mary Beth Gibson
She is a breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed with stage 2B cancer in 2006.
The details
Founded to assist younger women, the non-profit connects patients through flyers distributed to oncologists and hosts in-person support groups in Richmond, Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach. Operations are sustained through fundraising initiatives and calendar sponsorships, alongside retreats held at 4H Club facilities.
Timeline
Mary Beth Gibson received a stage 2B breast cancer diagnosis in May 2006.
Here For the Girls achieved official non-profit status in 2007.
The Big Picture
This story follows a pattern set by the historical trend of patient-led support groups in oncology. The organization mirrors this paradigm by focusing on the unique psychosocial needs of pre-menopausal breast cancer patients who often feel isolated.
Caregivers and family members can now access dedicated counseling sessions to help navigate the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Women under 40 seeking peer support can request referrals through their local oncologists.
The takeaway
Breast cancer support is increasingly recognizing the critical role that family and caregivers play in the healing process. Implementing a structured support system can significantly reduce feelings of isolation for both the patient and their loved ones.
Further reading
Learn more about local support networks on our Virginia Cancer page.
More information
Find additional resources and information on the Here For the Girls website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WAVY-TV 10 Hampton Roads.
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