Ukrainian Businesses Join Forces to Raise 1.5 Million UAH for Psychological Care of Women Battling Breast Cancer

Providing Emotional Support for Women Facing Breast Cancer

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: A coalition of Ukrainian companies has come together to fundraise for a vital psychological support program dedicated to women affected by breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, known locally as "Rozheveten." The "Together Forward" initiative, organized by the Inspiration Family Foundation, offers specialized emotional assistance to women undergoing treatment as well as those in remission. Throughout October 2026, Kyiv will host a series of charity and educational events, with all proceeds directed toward helping women cancer patients.

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women globally. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 2.3 million new cases are diagnosed worldwide each year. In Ukraine alone, there were 11,950 new breast cancer diagnoses recorded in 2025, as reported by the Ministry of Health's Public Health Center. The annual awareness campaign in Ukraine plays a crucial role in educating the public and promoting early detection.

The "Together Forward" Campaign

Founded by five women who have personally faced cancer, the Inspiration Family Foundation delivers comprehensive support programs for oncology patients in Ukraine. Their "Together Forward" project provides professional psychological counseling through weekly sessions held either online or in person in Kyiv. These sessions are tailored separately for women currently receiving treatment and those who have achieved remission.

“A cancer diagnosis is a traumatic life event and a crisis at once. While not everyone requires psychological help, many find their personal resources insufficient.” - Kateryna Lysnyk, oncology psychologist at the foundation.

The fundraising target for the psychological support program is set at 1.5 million UAH. Participating in this effort are several prominent organizations:

• book.ua – a network of bookstore-cafés
• Bagllet – a Ukrainian accessory brand
• Vivat Publishing House
• Faina Clinic – a chain of medical facilities
• The Match School – an online language learning platform

During October 2026, the book.ua venue in Kyiv will host a series of charity and awareness events. Entrance donations will range from 300 to 500 UAH, with free-will contributions also welcomed.

Scheduled activities include:

• October 17 – Charity yoga session led by Daria Korobchuk and Aliona Ryazantseva;
• October 24 – Speaking Club discussing "10 Myths About Women's Health" plus an open Q&A with a speaker from Faina Clinic;
• October 25 – A meeting with Anna Uzlova;
• October 31 – Charity brunch featuring a celebrity guest.

“Support groups provide essential interpersonal connection and the feeling of being understood. Long-term treatment often reduces social interactions, making this support crucial.” - Kateryna Lysnyk.

On November 1, 2026, an online raffle will be held for donors, featuring prizes from partners such as Faina Clinic, offering a certificate for a comprehensive women's health checkup; Vivat Publishing, providing a signed copy of the book "Worth Its Weight in Gold"; and Bagllet, donating a pink BG105MINIS RESORT handbag to the highest donor.

Since its launch in March 2026, the "Together Forward" program has received 126 applications and completed seven support group cycles. Participants continue to engage through an online chat for resources and mutual communication even after the sessions end. While currently focused on women with breast cancer, the program recognizes the need to extend psychological services to men and patients with other cancer types.

“Having a community of like-minded individuals who truly understand your emotions is incredibly important, especially after enduring such a challenging cancer journey.” - a support group participant.

This initiative marks a significant advancement in backing women coping with a difficult diagnosis, emphasizing that mental health care is an essential aspect of cancer treatment. The involvement of businesses highlights corporate social responsibility and their commitment to supporting impactful social causes. Beyond fundraising, "Together Forward" fosters a supportive community that helps ease the path toward recovery for many women facing similar challenges.

As the community rallies to support women battling breast cancer through the "Together Forward" initiative, similar efforts are gaining momentum across the country. Recently, over 580 participants came together for a charity run, demonstrating the collective commitment to raising awareness and funds for cancer care. You can read more about this inspiring event here.