“Being brave isn’t about the absence of fear; it’s about taking action despite feeling scared.”
On a personal note, last week signified 10 years since my very last Herceptin treatment. Looking back at this photo reminds me of the inner strength and courage that I had to muster to keep going back every week or few weeks over more than a year of intense treatment. It’s that same bravery that defines all the young women that we have encountered over the past 10 years and why I write to you today.
Over the past decade, So Brave has stood proudly alongside some of the fiercest young women in Australia – mothers, daughters, sisters, friends – all united by one devastating diagnosis: breast cancer under the age of 40.
What began as a powerful grassroots movement has grown into something even greater—a national force for awareness, support, and change. We’ve built a beautiful community founded on courage, connection, and hope.
And now, we’re stepping into a new era.
This next chapter brings a refined focus, stronger structure, and a clear mission: to be the leading voice and dedicated support system for young women diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia.
From today, So Brave is doubling down on what matters most. We exist to:
- Support young women diagnosed with breast cancer—whether they’re 15 or 39, mums or yet to start a family. We’ll be there as they navigate the shock, the system, and the road ahead.
- Raise awareness —in schools, on social media, across communities—because breast cancer doesn’t wait for 50. And neither will we.
- Advocate for systemic change – from national screening and detection guidelines to healthcare policies that finally see and serve young women.
Right now, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young women in Australia. More than 1,000 women under 40 will be diagnosed each year, yet awareness, access, and visibility remain far too low.
That’s where So Brave steps in.
This is not just a renewed focus – it’s a recommitment. A reinvestment in the work we’ve always done, now with renewed energy, sharper tools, and a bigger platform.
We’re rebuilding So Brave’s strategy and structure to make sure no young woman is ever told she’s “too young” for breast cancer again. We’re ensuring she is seen, heard, and fiercely supported.
To every woman under 40 who’s been diagnosed…
To every woman who’s ever felt alone, dismissed, or overlooked…
So Brave is for you. We are with you. And in our second decade – we are just getting started.
Because while cancer doesn’t discriminate, we can choose to show up with strength, solidarity, and hope.
With gratitude and determination,
Rachelle Panitz
Founder & CEO So Brave