MARIN MAN TO MAN: WHAT WE ARE

Marin Man to Man is a drop-in, dues-free group open to any male whose partner has, or has had, breast cancer.

The breakfast group, which marked its tenth year in 2003, meets weekly at 7:15 a.m. Wednesdays in Denny's Restaurant, Corte Madera.

Although the members are apt to talk about -- and even laugh about -- virtually anything, their emphasis is on making newcomers, and each other, feel less isolated, uncertain, misunderstood or afraid.

Marin Man to Man meets to exchange views, concerns and information. It has no facilitator, but the common interests of the group and respect for each other create a mutual bond.

The men provide an easygoing, compassionate forum in which each member can discuss and understand the difficulties of being a prime caregiver.

Long-term members share how they have strived to be supportive and loving, and how each man can reassure his partner that both she and their relationship will survive. Current members share, too, how to cope with the frustration of their needs often coming second to those of their partners.

Marin Man to Man is a non-judgmental environment that lets new attendees learn from those who are -- or have been -- in similar places.

More information is available by writing Woody Weingarten or Marv Edelstein at info@Marin-Man-to-Man.org