Proceeds from the sales of a new 24-month calendar featuring a group of breast cancer survivors from around the Seacoast will go to benefit those whose lives have been affected by the disease.

Breast Friends is a local network of women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Their 2007/2008 calendar features photographs and short biographies of women who have fought cancer and then transformed their lives, with images of them sharing their passions, from sporting equipment to sports cars, jewelry they’ve created and other hobbies. Photographs were taken by Marianne Pernold Young.

Proceeds from the calendar will support various causes started or supported by Breast Friends, including On Belay (www.on-belay.org), an adventure program for children ages 10-18 whose lives have been touched by cancer; BreastCancerStories.com, a website that shares the stories of breast cancer patients and survivors; Betty J. Borry Breast Cancer Retreats (www.bjbbreastcancerretreats.org), an outdoor adventure program for breast cancer survivors; and Fill The Gap, a new venture that is working in conjunction with area hospitals to staff a 24-hour triage hotline for newly diagnosed patients. 

The group aims to “put a face to the disease,” said one member, and to provide inspiration to those who are facing a diagnosis. The women plan to market the calendar to hospitals, cancer centers and physicians to give to their patients when newly diagnosed. The calendar will help to plan treatment and appointments. The calendar will also be sold in retail outlets, on Amazon.com, and online (www.seacoastconcertforacure.com/ breastfriendscalendar.htm), and the photographs will be part of a traveling exhibit displayed at various locations.