The Navigator Program celebrates 10 years at Munson.

When you are facing something unknown, a navigator can help you find your way.

That's true with breast cancer as well.

This is the 10 year anniversary of the Munson Healthcare's Navigator program. And that's the subject of tonight's Buddy Check Report.

Breast Cancer Survivor Lois Sudol says, "I was diagnosed in March of 2008. It's hard to receive that kind of information and you're kind of blind sided."

But today Lois is standing tall as a breast cancer survivor. Thanks in part to a group of women who planted a seed that began to bloom a decade ago.

Navigator Coordinator Blanche Heidt, R.N. B.S.N."there were women in the community who felt like they got good medical care but didn't feel like they got the support and education that they needed."

Those women took their concerns to Munson Medical Center and Heidt was part of a group who searched the country. They found what they were looking for in Oregon. From a state known for it's trail blazers, the Traverse City women would model a program of navigators.

Breast cancer survivors would become mentors, educators and friends to those battling the disease.

Navigator Lynda Cosgrove says, "I can remember when I woke up in the hospital from surgery and my navigator happened to be in the hospital at the same time and she came to see me and that's how we first met. I always felt like it was such a comfort to have someone to talk to when I needed to.... and I thought I need to do that for other people."

And she has, Cosgrove was so inspired by the Navigator Program she became one herself and has helped about 20 women over the years including Lois Sudol.

Lois says, "I first talked to Lynda on the phone and she was so supportive and compassionate to what I was going through. She was a great source of inspiration to me. Even with a supportive family and friends and your medical team- they haven't been through this. They don't know exactly what you're feeling as good and as supportive as they are. It helps to have someone you can call and talk to and they can guide you as to where to find information."

The group of 23 volunteers in the navigator program are all breast cancer survivors who have been out of treatment for at least a year. They go through thorough training, have monthly meetings and have access to the latest resources. But the most important thing they have to offer is something that can't be taught.

Lois says, "I think any woman who is going through breast cancer needs a sympathetic ear and there's power in hope and relaying your feelings to someone who has been there who can relate to you- you're fighting a battle and you need to win it and somebody needs to be behind you."

Recently Lois decided to be that ear for other women battling breast cancer. She has signed on to be a navigator herself.

Click here to learn more about the program.