COVID-19 Resources and Updates
We recognize this is a challenging and uncertain time for everyone–especially for those we love in our community who are battling serious illness.
We remain deeply committed to the health and safety of those we serve, our partners, donors, volunteers, and treasured advocates.
**Please make sure info@komenoc.org is added as a trusted email to your address book to ensure email deliverability.
Check your spam folders for any upcoming communications from Komen OC!**
Our work does not stop in light of this new challenge—breast cancer is still impacting lives across our county and it is our duty to continue to serve and protect those in our community who are most vulnerable. Our team is working closely with community partners to build a plan for how we will continue to fund and provide necessary resources that help those in need fight breast cancer in this new climate.
KOMEN OC’S SAFETY STEPS FOR MOVING AHEAD:
Last Updated 3/31/20
- In consideration of our staff and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Komen Orange County Irvine office will be closed until further notice. There are no suspected cases of COVID-19 at Komen Orange County, but our team will be working from home in an overabundance of caution. Our operating hours are Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm. Please allow time for our staff to return messages as they work remotely. You can always email info@komenoc.org as a starting point and your message will be forwarded to the appropriate team member for support.
- All Komen OC office volunteers have been instructed to stay home through the end of April. If you are interested in a virtual volunteer opportunity or have additional questions or concerns please contact Ali Menninger, amenninger@komenoc.org.
- Our Irvine office has increased its supply of hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectant wipes to continue staff and visitor adherence to recommended hygiene practices as outlined by the CDC. Visitors are encouraged to call-in when able via 714.957.9157.
- All Wig Salon appointments through the end of March have been canceled/postponed. If you have an upcoming appointment at our Wig Salon and wish to reschedule or have questions, please email Lauren Fix, lfix@komenoc.org.
- We will continue to work closely with our community and corporate partners regarding upcoming special events and initiatives.
You, the Orange County community, are the heart and soul of this movement and we look forward to rallying with you in the persistent and unwavering fight against breast cancer. With your support, we will continue to bring invaluable breast health services and education programs to those in our community who need them most.
If you have any questions, please give us a call at 714.957.9157 or email info@komenoc.org.
Thank you again for your support and understanding during this time.
Take care of yourselves and one another. We will get through this together!
BREAST HEALTH AND COVID-19 RESOURCES:
Last Updated 4/02/20
+ Tips on How to Manage Your Anxiety During Uncertain Times
+ Facts for Life: Talking with your doctor about Breast Health
+ COVID-19: Advice for Cancer Patients, Survivors, and Care Givers
+ Breast Self-Awareness Tips: Know What is Normal for You
+ Coronavirus (COVID-19): What Breast Cancer Patients, Survivors and Family Members Need to Know
+ Coronavirus (COVID-19): The Who, What, Where, and Sometimes Why
+ Coronavirus (COVID-19): How to Protect Yourself
UPCOMING PROGRAMS AND VIRTUAL EVENTS:
Last Updated 4/07/20
In accordance with recent guidelines set by California Governor Gavin Newsom, Komen Orange County will not host any large events (50+ attendees) through April 2020.
- Coffee Chat Wednesdays: Join us for our new Coffee Chat series hosted by survivors, thrivers, and advocates every Wednesday from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Covering various current discussion topics. For call-in information, please e-mail virtualchats@komenoc.org
- Komen OC Virtual Community Series: (on-going)
- Thursday, April 9, 2020: Join arts educator, breast cancer survivor and parent, Dr. Sharon Chappell, and her special guest, the Little Green Monster puppet for a live book reading of The Little Green Monster: Cancer Magic! and an art demonstration on Facebook LIVE. Curated for children and parents impacted by breast cancer. Please note: if you don’t have the following materials, that is ok! Gather some art supplies you might have at home and join us.
- Supplies needed for this virtual session
- Watercolor
- paper
- markers
- play-dough (if you have it)
- Supplies needed for this virtual session
- Thursday, April 9, 2020: Join arts educator, breast cancer survivor and parent, Dr. Sharon Chappell, and her special guest, the Little Green Monster puppet for a live book reading of The Little Green Monster: Cancer Magic! and an art demonstration on Facebook LIVE. Curated for children and parents impacted by breast cancer. Please note: if you don’t have the following materials, that is ok! Gather some art supplies you might have at home and join us.
- Cafecito’s Hope Support Group: (on-going)
- Friday, April 3, 2020: Join the Cafecito’s Hope Spanish Support Group every Thursday from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm via Conference line to discuss coping strategies, up to date information and resources to vital breast health, mental health, and other financial support. Discussions facilitated by Sol Reyes-Roberts, Retired Nurse and Breast Cancer Survivor.
Please contact Ambrocia Lopez, Director of Mission Programs at 714-957-9162 or via e-mail at alopez@komenoc.org for call-in information.
- Friday, April 3, 2020: Join the Cafecito’s Hope Spanish Support Group every Thursday from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm via Conference line to discuss coping strategies, up to date information and resources to vital breast health, mental health, and other financial support. Discussions facilitated by Sol Reyes-Roberts, Retired Nurse and Breast Cancer Survivor.
- MORE THAN PINK Tie Ball: Originally scheduled for Saturday, May 9 at the City National Grove of Anaheim from an in-person gala, will be transitioned to a virtual advocacy & fundraising experience. More updates about the ball will be released in the coming weeks.
- STAND UP FOR THE CURE: Originally scheduled for May 2 in Newport Beach, has been re-scheduled for November 7, 2020. More details to come.
- Financial Literacy & Financial Planning Series: Contact the workshop hosts for specific cancellation information.
KOMEN NATIONAL HELP LINE:
“In this time of social distancing, doctors’ appointments may be delayed, and people may be isolated from their usual sources of support,” says Susan Brown, Komen HQ’s senior director of education and patient support. “We know this can create uncertainty and raises many questions. We are here for you, we care about you, we will support you. Komen provides resources online and through our toll-free helpline to help patients, their families and loved ones going through breast cancer so that no one feels alone in a time of need.”
If you or a loved one needs information about breast health or breast cancer, call our breast care helpline to speak with a trained specialist or oncology social worker at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) or email at helpline@komen.org.
GENERAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE TIPS:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth and close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.