The Reading Refuge
A monthly, drop-in reading and reflection series featuring thoughtfully chosen nonfiction, memoirs, essays, and literary works that support emotional healing, connection, and community for people navigating breast cancer recovery, reconstruction, and life after treatment.
A Reading & Discussion Group for Breast Cancer Recovery and Reconstruction
The Reading Refuge is a monthly, drop-in friendly reading and reflection series created for people navigating breast cancer recovery, reconstruction, and life after treatment. It offers a thoughtful, supportive space to explore the emotional, psychological, and identity-level aspects of healing through carefully chosen books—without pressure to “stay positive,” move on quickly, or arrive at any particular outcome.
Each month centers on a different theme relevant to survivorship, including body image, fear and uncertainty, grief and loss, resilience, self-trust, connection, and rebuilding life after medical change.
Why The Reading Refuge Exists
Breast cancer and reconstruction don’t just affect the body—they shape how people experience themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. Many survivors find that once treatment ends, the emotional processing begins.
The Reading Refuge exists to:
Normalize the complex emotions that can arise during recovery and reconstruction
Offer language for experiences that are often hard to name
Reduce isolation by creating shared understanding and connection
Support healing that is personal, non-linear, and self-directed
This series is not about fixing yourself or performing healing. It’s about making space for reflection, understanding, and growth—on your own terms.
What We Read (and Why)
The Reading Refuge features a curated mix of nonfiction, memoirs, essay collections, and literary reflections. These books were chosen because they are:
Grounded and honest, not overly prescriptive or inspirational
Emotionally intelligent, with respect for complexity and nuance
Relevant to survivorship, reconstruction, and life after illness
Accessible, even for those experiencing fatigue, brain fog, or emotional overwhelm
Some selections draw on psychology and neuroscience. Others are written by people who have lived through illness, trauma, or major life transitions themselves. Together, they offer insight, validation, and perspective—without minimizing grief or rushing healing.
How the Group Works
The Reading Refuge is designed to be flexible and welcoming.
Drop-in Friendly
Join for one month or many
No Required Reading
Read the full book, selected excerpts or simply listen
There is no pressure to share
Participation is always optional
Trauma-Aware
Content notes and emotional intensity levels are provided each month
Each session typically includes a brief grounding practice, a short reading or reflection, and guided discussion prompts. Silence is welcome. So is honesty.
Who Reading Refuge is For
The Reading Refuge is open to:
Individuals considering or living with breast reconstruction
Survivors in early recovery or years beyond treatment
Anyone navigating body changes, identity shifts, or emotional aftereffects of breast cancer
You do not need to be an “avid reader.” You do not need to be fully healed. You only need curiosity and a willingness to meet yourself where you are.
Our Approach
At Coastal Hope for Healing, we believe:
Healing is not linear
Strength can include rest, grief, and vulnerability
Meaning doesn’t need to be forced
Community matters
The Reading Refuge reflects these values by offering a space that is thoughtful, respectful, and grounded in real survivor experiences.
Join Us
Whether you read every page or none at all, you are welcome here.
The Reading Refuge is a place to pause, reflect, and connect—through stories that feel real, relevant, and deeply human.