Allstate to Make Comprehensive, Supportive Guide Available to Every Person in the U.S. Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

NORTHBROOK, Ill., Oct. 2, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Allstate Insurance Company today announced it is partnering with bestselling author Hollye Jacobs to provide "The Silver Lining Companion Guide" to any person in the U.S. diagnosed with breast cancer. The guide was specially created to provide important information, practical tips and inspiration for those navigating through every stage of treatment and recovery.  In 2014, it is estimated that more than 250,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed. The guide is a condensed version of Jacobs' New York Times bestselling book, "The Silver Lining: A Supportive and Insightful Guide to Breast Cancer."

The guide will be available for download in English and Spanish on any e-reader. Additionally, through the nonprofit Direct Relief, a printed version of the guide will be available at participating distribution centers throughout the country. To download a version of the companion guide or to view a complete list of participating distribution centers, visit Allstate.com/SilverLining.

"No woman should be alone in the struggle against breast cancer," said Thomas J. Wilson, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Allstate. "This guide will be a source of comfort, knowledge and inspiration. We are thrilled to be able to help magnify Hollye's voice for those women who hear the dreaded words, 'You have breast cancer.' This completely aligns with Allstate's purpose, which is to be a force for good in local communities and protect people from life's uncertainties."

A breast cancer diagnosis is usually shocking and life altering. In the guide, Jacobs is the experienced friend who offers sound guidance and a sincere account of her personal experience with breast cancer. Jacobs' journey of self-discovery through illness led her to see the "Silver Linings" in life, providing her the balance and perspective needed to get her through the worst days following her diagnosis and treatments. These Silver Linings comprise the soul of the guide, which is designed to provide hope and information every step of the way.

"Sharing advice and support through the partnership with Allstate and 'The Silver Lining Companion Guide' is an incredible and unique opportunity to reach everyone impacted by breast cancer," said Jacobs. "I wish I had this guide when I was going through breast cancer. This is what inspired me to write the book and support those who are going through this experience, just as those who came before me made my path more bearable and more effective."

"Direct Relief is privileged to be able to help provide this valuable resource to people across the country who are or know someone affected by breast cancer," Kerri Murray, vice president of communications at Direct Relief. 

About Hollye Jacobs and "The Silver Lining"

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, 39-year-old mother Hollye Jacobs created a blog, The Silver Pen. The award-winning blog immortalized her thoughts and feelings about her diagnosis, as well as documented her experiences through a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation and recovery. With a wealth of information, The Silver Pen reached audiences far beyond Hollye's circle of friends and family, and became the foundation for her New York Times bestseller, "The Silver Lining."

Hollye's words are balanced with inspiring photographs by her friend, co-author and award-winning photographer, Elizabeth Messina. Her images reveal the hope, beauty and light that can be found within the darkness of breast cancer. They also serve as informative and inspiring visual aids for everyone impacted by the disease.

Jacobs is a speaker, nurse, social worker, child development specialist and author. Her professional knowledge as a health practitioner and her personal experiences as a cancer patient and survivor present a powerful package of wisdom. Her insights, humor and informed perspective on the breast cancer cycle — from detection through treatment, recovery and life after cancer — have touched thousands of people already.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, protecting approximately 16 million households from life's uncertainties through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names and Allstate Financial business segment. Allstate is widely known through the slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®." The Allstate brand's network of small businesses offers auto, home, life and retirement products and services to customers in the United States and Canada. In 2013, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate, its employees and agency owners gave $29 million to support local communities. Allstate employees and agency owners donated 200,000 hours of service across the country.

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SOURCE Allstate Insurance Company