The Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF), in collaboration with Gilead Sciences, has launched The Adventure Jar in Singapore — a heartfelt children’s storybook designed to help families navigate difficult conversations about breast cancer, especially metastatic breast cancer (MBC).
Through imaginative storytelling, The Adventure Jar shows a family learning to cope with change, uncertainty, and disappointment while discovering that shared moments still hold magic, even in tough times.
The Emotional Toll on Families
Talking to children about a cancer diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming for parents, and survey findings highlight the pressing need for tools like this storybook.
Key Insights from the BCF–Gilead Breast Cancer Communication Survey:
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59.1% of parents said emotional difficulty was the biggest barrier to discussing their diagnosis with children.
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28% lacked age-appropriate materials, making communication harder.
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84.9% felt their children did not fully understand their illness, affecting emotional well-being.
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61.3% believed there were insufficient support services, such as counselling or family workshops.
These findings echo the Mother+Child Survey 2025, which revealed that:
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Nearly 40% of parents rated communication with children about cancer as highly difficult (4 or 5 out of 5).
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Parents reported children’s distress over changes like hair loss and fatigue, with some children saying they felt they “did not have a present parent.”
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Emotional support for caregivers and guided family communication were identified as the most urgently needed resources.
The Adventure Jar directly addresses these gaps by offering families a compassionate, child-friendly way to talk about illness.
Empowering Families Through Compassionate Communication
“The Adventure Jar is more than just a storybook; it’s a tool for healing,” said Ms Mae Pang, Head of Advocacy & Communications at BCF. “Children sense emotional changes but are often left out of the conversation. This book bridges that gap, helping parents talk with honesty and empathy.”
Developed with input from eight women living with MBC and a psychiatrist, the storybook was created “for the community, by the community.” Illustrator Alexandra Colombo, who has lost loved ones to cancer, brings warmth and humanity to every page, making it relatable for young readers.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Families affected by breast cancer have praised the initiative:
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Dawn Chan, a BCF member and TNBC survivor, shared: “Explaining my diagnosis to my kids was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. The Adventure Jar is the kind of resource I wish I had. It opens up space for gentle, loving conversations that help children feel secure, even in uncertain times.”
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Cathy Su, General Manager of Gilead Sciences (Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore), added: “With over 60% of families affected by cancer noting a lack of educational resources, we hope this book encourages resilience, openness, and cherished family moments.”
Where to Get the Book
The Adventure Jar is available in hardcover and digital formats in English and Mandarin. Download the book here!
Together, We Can Support Families Affected by Breast Cancer
BCF’s mission goes beyond raising awareness — it’s about empowering families to face breast cancer together. Tools like The Adventure Jar ensure that no parent, caregiver, or child has to face the journey alone.
For more information on BCF’s initiatives, visit www.bcf.org.sg or follow BCF on Facebook (@BreastCancerFoundationSG) and Instagram (@bcfsg).
