Your Health Breast Cancer 10-13-2022

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS Knowledge is power

Celebrating the importance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the health of everyone everywhere

In their own words

Survivors help themselves by supporting others through diagnosis, treatment and recovery

By Lyn Dobrin

For over 40 years, the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program has been a vital resource for Long Islanders and all New Yorkers coping with breast cancer.

The more than 100 highly trained volunteers offer comfort, guidance and referrals, all free. Social work staff provides professional services.

Before the pandemic, throughout the pandemic and in the redefined postpandemic “normal,” Adelphi’s dedicated volunteers and staff remain committed to meeting the challenges and needs of patients and survivors. In addition to the hotline, locally the program offers support groups, individual and family counseling, plus educational forums and workshops. Hotline staffers are readily available to respond to everyone who has concerns about breast cancer. “You are not alone” is their motto.

Many local survivors are longtime hotline volunters. They contribute their personal insights in their ongoing effort to help others; sharing their message that it is possible to get through this and even thrive as you find your own way on this unanticipated journey. These survivors have turned their encounter with the disease into an opportunity to better themselves and those around them.

Cindy Kaye-Fink

East Meadow, Hotline volunteer for four years

I was diagnosed with breast cancer, when I was 36. I had a lumpectomy, radiation and chemo. Again in 2010, I had a mastectomy and chemo.

The most difficult part of my journey both times was getting through the chemo treatments. I was very sensitive to the medications and became extremely ill, requiring hospitalization several times. During my first bout of breast cancer, I was so young and knew no one who had to deal with this illness before. I felt very alone and scared, so I reached out to the Adelphi Breast Cancer hotline. I was recommended to their newly diagnosed, young women’s support group, which met in person.

I found that experience to be extremely valuable, so much so, that a small group of us continued to meet every month after the formal group was over. We met for 26 years until Covid stopped our in-person get-togethers. Three of the four of us moved to Florida and I winter down there, so now we can continue to meet.

This same group of ladies truly helped me get through my second bout of breast cancer as well, offering advice on everything from how to get through side effects of the meds, how to deal with mastectomy and reconstruction, to how to handle the emotional ups and downs of this life-threatening disease.

I retired four years ago from a 30-year career as a Senior Court Reporter in Nassau County Court. Upon doing so, one of my goals was to give back to the Adelphi Breast Cancer program by volunteering in any way that I could. After training with the program, I began by working with their outreach team, helping out at various community fairs, endeavoring to teach women about breast health and the importance of mammography and early detection.

Because I am bilingual, I also worked with Adelphi’s Sisters United in Health program reaching out to Hispanic women on Long Island. This was all very rewarding.

When Covid hit in 2020, the in-person activities ceased. In 2021 I began to answer calls weekly on the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline, which I am still doing currently. I love being able to help counsel women on a peer-to-peer basis, giving them the support and advice that I so desperately needed when I first called this amazing organization.

Besides the Adelphi program, I relied on my incredible family and close friends for support during both breast cancer episodes. My husband and two daughters are and have always been my rocks and my salvation. They kept me positive through all the treatments and illnesses and still do to this day. I realize how lucky I am to have this built-in support system at home. I am now 12 years in remission and I know that I am not only a survivor, but a thriver, living my best life and appreciating every minute of it!

Pat Emma West Hempstead, Hotline volunteer for seven years

In 2015, I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 67. I was seen at Mt. Sinai and then Memorial Sloan Kettering. It was at MSK that I had a single mastectomy with reconstruction. It took months to prepare my body for the implant and then another surgery. During that time my oncologist discussed a clinical trial and I decided to take a leap of faith and join it. I was randomized and did not receive chemotherapy or radiation. but required a hormonal medication against estrogen

which needed to be taken for seven to 10 years.

There were lots of prayers and petitions during my recovery. I leaned on my family and friends and church community who were there to help support me. I didn’t know that the textured implant I chose would eventually be taken off the market because it could cause…cancer! The textured implant stayed in my body for seven years. After thinking and talking about it, I had another surgery five months ago to remove the questionable implant and use my abdominal fat to form a new breast. It was an extensive surgery. There are so many decisions to make along the way, and you just hope that you’re making the right ones.

I knew that I wanted to become involved with the Adelphi Breast Cancer Support Program. I got trained and started volunteering on the hotline and other events.

In these past seven years, I’ve shared my experiences with many other breast cancer survivors. We laugh and cry together. We share stories and information. The Adelphi Program is a wonderfully cohesive group of women who help and support other women (and men) in all phases of breast cancer and treatment. During this journey, I sought nutrition counseling, social worker sessions, and got involved in a writing program called Visible Ink. The writing became an outlet to express feelings about my experiences. Again, my support was my family, friends, my writing, physical therapists (who specialize in treating breast cancer patients), and my new friends at Adelphi Breast Cancer Support Center.

Judith Cohen

Oceanside (now retired to Fulton, Md.), Hotline volunteer for five years

I was 60 when diagnosed in 2005 and again at 74 in 2020. My treatment the first time was estrogen blocker and radiation; the second time estrogen blocker again but I stopped because of side effects.

My mother and a close friend died of breast cancer, which made my situation very emotionally difficult. However, my early diagnosis and good prognosis kept me hopeful along with excellent medical care.

For five years I volunteered for the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program, mostly outreach. I am grateful to the program for kindness, insight and ongoing support.

Knowledge is power

Stay vigilant and know the facts

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women (excluding skin cancer) and second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women. About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime and 1 in 833 men.

• In 2022, an estimated 290,560 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diag nosed in the U.S., along with 51,400 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. An estimated 43,780 people will lose their lives to metastatic breast cancer.

As of 2020, there were 2.26 million global cases of breast cancer, making it the most com monly diagnosed cancer in the world. 685,000 of those diagnosed have died.

• Breast cancer death rates have dropped by 41 percent since 1989, as a result of earlier detec tion through increased awareness and mam mography screening, as well as advances in treatments. Despite this drop, Black women are 40 percent more likely to die of breast cancer than white women overall and are twice as likely to die if they are younger than age 50.1

• The five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer that has not spread to the lymph nodes or other location is 99 percent.

• There are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.

• The average risk of a woman in the U.S. getting breast cancer during her life is about 12 per cent.

•

About 15 percent of women with breast cancer have a family member with this disease.

• Evidence is growing that regular physical activ ity reduces breast cancer risk, especially in women after menopause. Exactly how physical activity might reduce breast cancer risk isn’t clear, but it may be due to its effects on body weight, inflammation, hormones, and energy balance.

Early Detection is Key to Defeating Breast Cancer

Anyone who’s been through it never forgets the moment they are told “it’s cancer.” For Susan Blaize-Sampeur, that moment came on October 11, 2021.

A mammogram showed a tiny mass in her left breast, and a follow-up biopsy revealed stage 1 invasive breast cancer that had spread into the surrounding breast tissue. Susan’s cancer was diagnosed early and is highly treatable, but she was still shocked and terrified.

Soon after the diagnosis, Susan had a lumpectomy at Mount Sinai South Nassau to remove the tumor. The successful surgery was followed by a series of visits to Mount Sinai South Nassau Radiation Oncology for radiation therapy to reduce the possibility of cancer recurrence.

Grateful to her “incredible cancer team,” Susan is thriving today. Throughout her cancer journey, the expertise and kindness of her team filled her with hope and confidence for the future. “Whether it’s a question about treatment or a request to schedule an appointment, they respond with a smile, and a reassuring word,” she said.

Nearly 2,400 women on Long Island and nearly 300,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Christine Hodyl, DO, FACS, Director of Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast Health, knows that detecting cancer in its earliest stage saves lives. A division of the hospital’s Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center located in Valley Stream, Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast Health works together with Mount Sinai

South Nassau Women’s Imaging to provide a full spectrum of clinical and support services for breast cancer patients.

Designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, the women’s imaging program uses state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, including digital mammography, high-resolution ultrasound, and breast MRI, to detect breast disease in its earliest stage. Genetic counseling is also available.

One Healthy Way, Oceanside,

Health

Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology has been dedicated to the health of Long Islanders for the last 70 years, and is still expanding this commitment. With 21 offices throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, ZP is continually updating their imaging technology, renovating their offices, and expanding into new communities. What started out as a small x-ray center in Massapequa, founded by Dr. Jerome Zwanger, has expanded into Long Island’s premier imaging center, trusted for generations.

“ZP has always had the mindset that investing every few years in the newest imaging equipment is a great benefit to the patient. At a hospital or hospital-owned facility, patients may be scanned on technology that is decades old,” says John Fargnoli, Vice President of ZP. Many specialized services offered at ZP cannot be found even at local hospitals. The new metal reduction Free.Max MRI, for example, is superb for patients with metal implants, which normally obscure the images and make a proper diagnosis very difficult. The Free.Max MRI also offers the world’s first 80 cm bore for claustrophobic and anxious patients.

Diagnostic confidence is important when it comes to the accurate medical assessment of a patient’s condition. That’s why ZP’s team of subspecialized radiologists read only in their field of expertise. Whether it’s orthopedics, neurology, body imaging or breast imaging, our physicians provide expert interpretations of your medical images, and are always available to speak with your physician directly.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects in radiology is the

patient experience. From scheduling your appointment to receiving your test results, ZP takes every step to make a very stressful time more manageable. At many other facilities, you have to wait 3 to 4 weeks to be seen. Whereas at ZP, same-day appointments are available for many exams. Also, their extremely user-friendly web portal makes receiving and sharing your results very simple.

“Our job is to treat every patient who walks through our door like they are a hotel guest. We are continuously inspired by restaurants, stores, hotels, airlines and other hospitality businesses. The simple motto ‘kindness matters’ is a big part of our corporate culture here at ZP,” said John Fargnoli.

Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast Health is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. Dr. Hodyl and the program’s team of surgeons use advanced techniques that aim to preserve as much of the healthy breast and surrounding tissue as possible. If mastectomy—an operation in which the breast is removed—is needed, there are many options for breast reconstruction. As an approved National Clinical Trial Network Affiliate site within the Mount Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai South Nassau is now enrolling patients with early-stage HER2positive breast cancer in a study to determine if they can safely be treated with less chemotherapy than typically prescribed. For enrollment information for the trial, call 516-632-3312.

To schedule a consultation or for more information about Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast Health or Women’s Imaging, call (516) 632-3350, or visit mountsinai.org/southnassau.

Family and privately owned, ZP is not affiliated with any hospitals or outside facilities. It’s up to you where your family receives their medical imaging. Why not choose the best?

To make an appointment or for more information, call (516) 798-4242 or visit zprad.com.

Updates from the front line

It all starts with screening

By Angela Papalia

October is a call to action. Breast Breast Cancer Awareness Month means many things to many people. It is a time to celebrates sur vivorship, continue fundraising efforts in the fight to finlly eradicate to the disease, and so forth — but above all, it’s the perfect time to reinforce the importance of early detection and annual mammography screening.

This year, about 287,850 women and 2,710 men will be diagnosed with new cases of invasive breast cancer. Statistics show that women have a one in eight chance of devel oping breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. As October highlights breast cancer awareness and resources, we are encouraging individuals to schedule their annual mam mography screenings as soon as possible.

At the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, one of the country’s oldest breast cancer hotlines, our campaign “Self-Care is Essential” urges indi viduals to take charge of their health and get a mammogram. “We know that early detec tion is our chance for survival and less inva sive treatment for breast cancer,” says Executive Director Reyna Machado.

Providing access to professionally trained and supervised volunteers who staff the hot line, the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program offers resources and links to free or low-cost mam mograms to individuals across the State. Licensed social workers provide confidential, bilingual support services to those who are coping with a breast cancer diagnosis. Ongoing support groups, educational pro grams and volunteer opportunities are avail able throughout the year, and all services provided are free of charge.

Patients value education, culturally com petent educational forums, and assistance navigating the complex healthcare system. For individuals who are seeking services — sometimes for the first time — having profes sional guidance and support can provide a great deal of comfort and relief knowing that there is someone to help.

For those who are seeking to schedule a mammogram, the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program can assist you with resources in your area. If you are 40 or older, it’s important to schedule your mammogram annually. If you are under 40 and have a family history of breast cancer, it’s important to consult with a trained medical professional about when to

begin screening. Call (800) 877-8077 to speak with someone today who can help to provide referrals, offer support and linkage services.

As anyone who has dealt with a breast cancer diagnosis knows, life can change in a moment. For over 40 years, the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program’s staff and volunteers have been supporting women, men and their loved ones, even during the difficulties brought on by the pandemic. As we move forward in the fight against breast cancer and emerge from Covid-19, we look towards brighter days and will continue to remain true

to our mission: that no one faces breast can cer alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling with a breast cancer diagnosis, call our hot line. Remember, you are not alone. You can also visit the website at: breast-cancer.adel phi.edu for more information, support, com munity events, and free resources.

Angela Papalia LMSW, is Assistant Director of the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program

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Getting fit — and staying fit

What you need to know about exercise

A breast cancer diagnosis may set back your fitness routine, but it’s only temporary. Get back in shape! There are plenty of exercise options after breast cancer.

Many wonder if it’s safe to return to the exercise regimens they followed prior to being diagnosed. The answer is yes. Breast cancer survivors can benefit from exercise, but it’s important to prioritize safety when working out.

Those who have had breast cancer sur gery may be at risk of lymphedema, a condi tion characterized by swelling of the soft tis sues of the arm, hand, trunk, or breast. That swelling is sometimes accompanied by dis comfort and numbness, and some people dealing with lymphedema also experience infection.

Keep in mind that some exercise may be especially risky for breast cancer survivors:

Swimming laps using strokes with arm movements

Activities that involve the usage of resis tance bands

and push-ups

yoga poses, including downwardfacing dog and inversions, that put ample weight on the arms

machines

skiing

do not compromise their recovery. Discuss exercise with your physician and surgeon. Before making exercise a part of your post-recovery routine, speak with your physician and surgeon to determine if there any movements you should avoid. Your doc tor and surgeon can tell you how you will be affected by medications you might be taking as part of your continued recovery. Take it slowly. If you were an exercise enthusiast prior to your diagnosis, you must recognize that returning to your pre-cancer regimen may not be possible, or that it’s likely to take a while before you feel like your old self again. Take a gradual approach, allowing yourself to build strength and not expecting results to appear overnight.

Emphasize form. Place a great emphasis on form when exercising after surviving breast cancer. Many breast cancer survivors undergo surgery as part of their treatments, but even those who did not should still priori tize proper form when exercising, even if it means lifting substantially less weight than you might have prior to your diagnosis.

ennis

While you might want to avoid certain types of exercise, it’s important to note that the American Cancer Society recommends exer cise after breast cancer surgery. But exercise should be approached with safety in mind, and breast cancer survivors should heed the fol lowing tips

Don’t persist through pain. If you feel any pain upon returning to exercising, stop immediately and speak with your physician and surgeon prior to exercising again. Rest between sessions. You likely won’t be able to exercise on successive days any time soon, but build off days into your routine so you can rest and recover.

BREAST CANCER

ADELPHI NY STATEWIDE BREAST CANCER SUPPORT & HOTLINE

More than 100 highly trained volunteers o er emotional support, information and referrals, all free. Social work sta provides professional services. Hotline as well as extensive support groups and counseling program, with educational forums and advocacy activities.

Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Support & Hotline 800-877-8077 516-877-4320 breast-cancer.adelphi.edu

SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation site provides updated cancer research and o ers practical breast health tips. The site also includes information about Race for the Cure. A helpline is available.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure 877 GO KOMEN (800-462-9273) ww5.komen.org

LIVING BEYOND BREAST CANCER

LBBC is a national nonpro t organization dedicated to empowering all women a ected by breast cancer to live as long as possible with the best quality of life. Programs and services include the helpline, conferences, teleconferences, networking programs, newsletters, publications and recordings.

Living Beyond Breast Cancer Survivors’ Helpline 888-753-5222 www.lbcc.org

BREAST CANCER HELP, INC.

Since its inception, Breast Cancer Help has taken a multlipronged approach to combating breast cancer on Long Island, according to the organization.  Breast Cancer Help, Inc. 745-520-3075 breastcancerhelpinc.org

CANCER CARE, INC.

Provides support services (including on-line and on-site support groups), education, information, referrals and nancial assistance. A Long Island o ce is located in Woodbury. Cancer Care, Inc. 800-813-HOPE 516-364-8130 (Long Island) www.cancercare.org

Guide

LEAN ON ME

BREAST CANCER NETWORK INC.

Established to provide comprehensive resources to women for issues pertaining to breast health and disease. Programs and services are designed to assist patients and families to manage their diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Lean on Me Breast Cancer Network Inc. 516-829-6609 www.leanonmebcn.com

MID NASSAU LEND

A HELPING HAND, INC

LAHH provides customized services to breast cancer patients in hopes of relieving some of the stress and worry a cancer diagnosis and ensuing treatment creates. It addresses the needs of women in the Long Island communities of Carle Place, Garden City, Hempstead, East Meadow, Mineola, Westbury and Uniondale.

Mid Nassau Lend A Helping Hand, Inc. (LAHH) 888-420-1030

HEWLETT HOUSE

Hewlett House, located in Hewlett, is a community learning resource center o ering many support programs, outreach, education, research, Reiki, Tai Chi, chair yoga, wig program, counseling, art center, music and pet therapy. All at no charge in a home enviornment. Hewlett House 516-374-3190 hewlett-house.org

PATIENT ADVOCATE FOUNDATION

Co-pay relief program provides direct nancial support to insured patients, who must nancially and medically qualify to access pharmaceutical co-payment assistance. The Foundation also assists patients with medical debt crisis, insurance access issues and job retention.

Patient Advocate Foundation 866-512-3861 www.copays.org

NATIONAL LYMPHEDEMA NETWORK

Nonpro t organization that provides patients and professionals with information about prevention and treatment of this complication of lymph node surgery. Call the hotline for referrals. National Lymphedema Network 800-541-3259 www.lymphnet.org

Knowledge is power

BREAST Guide

SHARE: SUPPORT SERVICES FOR WOMEN WITH BREAST OR OVARIAN CANCER

O ers peer-led support to women with breast or ovarian cancer, their families and friends. Services include hotlines, support groups, wellness programs, educational forums and advocacy activities.

SHARE: Support Services for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer 866-891-2392 www.sharecancersupport.org

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based health organization dedicated to the ght against cancer. Free information on treatment, reconstruction, sexuality and relationships. O ers prevention, education, advocacy, emotional support and other services for all types of cancer and referrals for the ACSsponsored “Reach for Recovery” program.

American Cancer Society 800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org

Y-ME NATIONAL BREAST CANCER ORGANIZATION

Provides support, counseling and information. Tips for talking with family and friends (including children). Partner Match program, a service for those supporting women through breast cancer, and a guide, When the Woman You Love Has Breast Cancer. Also Your Shoes, a 24/7 breast cancer peer support center.

Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization 800-221-2141 www.y-me.org

LONG BEACH

BREAST CANCER COALITION

This group’s mission is to promote awareness, advocate for increased funding for research into the causes of breast cancer, and for improved methods of detection and treatment; and assistance in securing access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition 516-943-3404 longbeachbcc.com

NUMC BREAST IMAGING CENTER

Screenings with no out-of-pocket expense for those in need. Also providers of Cancer Services Program, a comprehensive cancer-screening and counseling service where breast, cervical and colorectal screenings are regularly performed free of charge for women and men who qualify.

NUMC Breast Imaging Center 516-572-3300 www.numc.edu/our-services/diagnosticimaging/

CANCER SUPPORT/RESOURCE

ROCKVILLE CENTRE BREAST CANCER COALITION

Education and advocacy of breast cancer research, providing support services to those in Rockville Centre and neighboring towns who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition www.rvcbcc.org

THE BREASTIES

The Breasties mission is to empower those a ected by breast and reproductive cancers by igniting strength and positivity through connection, free retreats, wellness activities, events and an all-inclusive resourceful online community. The hope is to spread the message that whatever you are going through — you are not alone.

The Breasties thebreasties.org

A WORLD OF PINK (AWOP)

This nonpro t is a health facility dedicated to providing comprehensive aftercare and education for all women who have chosen or due to health reasons undergo breast surgery.

A World of Pink (AWOP) 516-513-1275 • 631-364-9684 aworldofpink.com

CASTING FOR RECOVERY

Unique retreat program that combines breast cancer education and peer support with the therapeutic sport of y- shing, at no cost to participants.

Casting For Recovery 631-252-7195 www.castingforrecovery.org

MANHASSET WOMEN’S COALITION AGAINST BREAST CANCER (MWCABC)

Helps residents of Manhasset and nearby communities who are coping with breast cancer. Outreach Program provides information, emotional support, wellness retreats, gifts of hope, housecleaning, nancial assistance and transportation services.

Manhasset Women’s Coalition Against Breast Cancer (MWCABC) 516-627-2410 www.manhassetbreastcancer.org

PINK AID

Through a partnership with Support Connection, Pink Aid o ers a support hotline for breast cancer patients and survivors. Services o ered include ongoing emotional support and navigational support to help in nding resources. The hotline is open Monday to Friday yearround. Pink Aid 1-800-532-4290 www.pinkaid.org

NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE

Provides information on all aspects of cancer and on clinical trials.

National Cancer Institute 800-4-CANCER www.cancer.gov

CLEANING FOR A REASON

House cleaner service at no charge, each person with cancer receives one general house cleaning per month for two consecutive months. Note from doctor needed.

Cleaning For A Reason 877-337-3348 www.cleaningforareason.org

MAURER FOUNDATION FOR BREAST HEALTH EDUCATION

Educational breast health programming focusing on breast cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, early detection and risk reduction. Presentations o ered at no charge for high schools, colleges, community groups and businesses. Maurer Foundation For Breast Health Education 631-524-5151 www.maurerfoundation.org

PINK PURSE

Provides emergency aid for individuals who need support due to their breast cancer diagnosis. Funds are o ered to help pay for non-medical, household expenses. Pink Purse www.pinkaid.org/pa/pink-aid-pink-purse

CURE MOMMY’S BREAST CANCER

Financial assistance, moral support, and educational information to those in need of nancial assistance while su ering the burdens of breast cancer as well as other forms of cancer. Assistance with insurance premiums, rent, utility bills, home cleaning services, and transportation costs to special schools for sick children.

Cure Mommy’s Breast Cancer 516-967-1148 www.curemommy.org

MERCY MEDICAL CENTER BREAST CANCER SURVIVORSHIP PROGRAM

Free mammograms, ultrasounds, molecular breast imaging and biopsies to quali ed medically underserved and uninsured residents of Nassau and Su olk County.

Mercy Medical Center Breast Cancer Survivorship Program 516-705-1399 mercymedicalcenter.chsli.org

YOUNG SURVIVAL COALITION

Dedicated to addressing the concerns and issues unique to young women with breast cancer.

Young Survival Coalition 877-YSC-1011 www.youngsurvival.org

LEAN ON ME

BREAST CANCER NETWORK

Network that provides free support services to breast cancer patients and their families, including education, wellness seminars, group support and annual retreat. Patient care packages include information kits, necessity bags, wigs, and post-surgical bras and ttings.

Lean On Me Breast Cancer Network 516-829-6609 leanonmeny@gmail.com www.leanonmeny.org

THE FIVE WISHES

The Five Wishes refers to a comprehensive approach that discusses advanced directives with individuals and families.

The Five Wishes o ers legal documents, support resources for patients and professionals, and links to pertinent information that social workers often use with individuals dealing with a lifethreatening illness.

The Five Wishes 850-681-2010 info@ vewishes.org www. vewishes.org

ROCKING THE ROAD FOR A CURE

Rocking the Road for a Cure Inc., is a community-based non-pro t organization founded to provide free educational and homebound wellness programs, case management, counseling, recreational therapy and other support services for women and men going through the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Rocking The Road For A Cure 516-417-1911 rockingtheroadforacure@gmail.com https://rockingtheroadforacure.org

SHARSHERET

A national organization of cancer survivors dedicated to addressing the unique concerns of young Jewish women facing breast cancer. It also provides culturally sensitive support to young Jewish women who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer as well as to those facing the risk of developing breast cancer, and o ers related resources for Jewish communities and health care organizations.

Sharsheret 866-474-2774 info@sharsheret.org www.sharsheret.org

UHF Honors Parker Jewish Institute’s Chief Medical Officer Igor Israel, MD, as a Quality Improvement Champion

Parker Jewish Institute is proud to announce that Chief Medical Officer Igor Israel, MD, was honored recently by United Hospital Fund as a Quality Improvement Champion. Dr. Israel was recognized for his efforts to improve quality of care, patient safety, and the patient experience at Parker.

The fourth annual Tribute to Excellence in Health Care event was held in person at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, after two years of virtual events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Dave A. Chokshi, MD, former Commissioner at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, gave the keynote address.

Dr. Israel and his fellow honorees — physicians, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists and a broad range of other health care workers — were each selected by a senior executive at their institution. They represent New York City, as well as Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, and were drawn from hospital systems, long-term care facilities, home care organizations, independent practice associations, federally qualified health centers, medical groups, and behavioral health organizations.

Parker SeniorVice President of Patient Care Services, ColleenAriola; SeniorVice President of Nerken Center for Research Lorraine Breur;President & CEO Michael Rosenblut;Chief Medical Officer Dr.Igor Israel;Vice President of Corporate Engagement Lina Scacco;andAssociate Medical Director Dr.Arpan Philip at theTribute to Excellence in Health Care event.

“Today’s celebration of health care excellence is part of UHF’s broader work to build an effective and equitable health care system,” said UHF president Anthony Shih, MD, in his

opening remarks. “We have some of the best health care institutions in the world, many represented in this room, but we all recognize that we must relentlessly continue to improve

Parker Jewish Institute • (718) 289-2212 • lscacco@parkerinstitute.org

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

quality.” The tribute was created to recognize and nourish this essential work, he said.

“Parker Jewish Institute is so proud of Dr. Israel, whose guidance, expertise and empathy complement our mission at Parker, where are team members are inspired every day to provide top-quality health care with dignity and compassion to our residents and patients,” said Michael N. Rosenblut, Parker’s President and CEO.

“I am honored to be recognized by the United Hospital Fund as a Quality Improvement Champion along with my esteemed peers in health care,” Dr. Israel said. “Together, we are making a difference in the region.”

Cary A. Kravet, a UHF board member and trustee of Northwell Health, was the event chair, and TD Bank was the Lead Sponsor of the Tribute.

Queens Long Island Renal Institute provides dialysis patients care, safety and convenience

The award-winning Queens Long Island Renal Institute focuses on care, safety and convenience for kidney dialysis patients in the New York metropolitan area. Located in the lobby level of Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation with its own entrance, the center provides care to Parker’s residents and patients as well as to the general public.

Queens Long Island Renal Institute offers the finest quality of care, state-of-the-art technology and uncompromised dignity, in a bright, ultramodern and comfortable setting.

The center is a certified 5-Diamond Status Facility, and is recognized for its demonstrated commitment to quality improvement by building and promoting a culture of patient safety. To earn this status, dialysis facilities must apply for the recognition each year. They must complete the program’s Culture of Safety module each year. A facility’s entire staff - including dieticians, management, nurses, medical directors, social workers and technicians - must participate in the program in order to qualify.

Licensed by the New York State Department of Health, QLIRI is led by a dedicated, interdisciplinary team of experienced nephrologists and dialysis registered nurses, a

renal social worker, and a registered renal dietitian. The team is ready to meet the individual needs of dialysis patients and families, and provides individual and family health education, as well as nutritional counseling and social work services.

QLIRI is outfitted with an in-center chronic hemodialysis. It features comfortable, state-of-theart, private treatment stations with personal TVs. There is also a homelike reception area with a large-screen TV as well as free wireless access. It

accommodates stretchers, and offers valet parking.

“With Queens Long Island Renal Institute conveniently located in Parker’s first-floor lobby, we continue to safely and comfortably meet the needs of our patients and residents, as well as members of the New York community who also benefit from our services,” said Michael N. Rosenblut, President and Chief Executive Officer of Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation.

About Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation

Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, which is headquartered in New Hyde Park, is a leading provider of Short Term Rehabilitation and Long Term Care. At the forefront of innovation in patient-centered health care and technology, the Institute is a leader in teaching and geriatric research. Parker Jewish Institute features its own medical department, and is nationally renowned as a skilled nursing facility, as well as a provider of community-based health care, encompassing Social Adult Day Care, Home Health Care, Medical House Calls, Palliative Care and Hospice.

HERE FOR EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY LIFE

At Catholic Health, exceptional medical care and personalized support is inspired by every one of you.

Our Faith puts all your needs and comfort first. So, our innovative medical care is always delivered with unmatched compassion. It’s because we understand that we’re not treating just patients, we’re treating someone’s family, best friend, and neighbors to us all.

Learn more at chsli.org

Health impacts of untreated hearing loss

Aging Social Isolation and Loneliness: Hearing loss is experienced by 50% of individuals 60-70; 66% of individuals 70-80; and nearly 80% of individuals over 80.

• Falls: Untreated hearing lLoss increases the risk of falling by 140%.

• Cardiovascular Disease: Hearing loss is 54% more common in those who have cardiovascular disease.

• Diabetes: Hearing loss is 2x as common in people with diabetes.

• Cognitive Decline and Dementia: Untreated hearing loss increases your risk of dementia by 200-500%.

If you are noticing any of the symptoms of hearing loss, or if your family is encouraging you to seek assistance with your hearing, then it is time to take your first step to have a hearing test and learn about treatment options.

Hearing loss is a progressive degenerative disorder that significantly compromises the neural integrity of the auditory system, and the brain. As a result, the most common symptoms of

hearing loss that result from this neural dysfunction are:

• Difficulty following a conversation in background noise

• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in your ears)

• Hearing people speak but not understanding everything they say (i.e. a loss of clarity)

In the past decade, science has helped clinicians and their patients understand the connections of hearing loss to overall health care. We now understand that diabetes can affect hearing, as well as cardiovascular disease and kidney

disease. We also know that nutrition and diet can impact hearing. Perhaps the most alarming statistic is that hearing loss can increase the risk of developing cognitive decline, memory loss and dementia by as much as 200-500%. This study, led by Dr. Frank Lin at Johns Hopkins Medical Center, has highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy hearing to maintain a healthy brain.

Hypnosis reinvented

After 30 years in practice as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Terry Biener still believes that the key to using hypnosis as a helpful tool — often referred to as Hypnotherapy — is knowing what to say, how to say it, and which techniques to use. Each person processes information differently. So, origins of habits, fears, and other challenges vary greatly. Sessions are private, tailored to the person’s lifestyle, personality, triggers, and sometimes, the past.

In March 2020, everything changed. As her clientele canceled appointments, Biener abruptly shut down her practice. Uncertainty prevailed. Months passed, and it was apparent that safe distancing and masks would continue indefinitely. Since her work entailed up-close communication, and talking through a mask was a muffled no-go, reinvention was necessary. She used her time to research, take online courses and even attend virtual hypnotherapy conferences, worldwide. Embracing online technology was clearly a solution. After all, many health providers and therapists were going virtual.

While most clients lived locally, distance is no longer an issue. By summer of 2020, Biener was offering Zoom hypnotherapy sessions, allowing extra time to help people find the most effective environment, both physically and technologically.

“I was skeptical at first,” she admits, having worked in person for so long. “But once I retrained, I realized that online sessions were not only successful, but many people prefer it. Scheduling was always a challenge. Now a person can set aside an hour of their time rather than three, and they can contact me from anywhere. I recently helped a former client with test anxiety, while he attended college, out of state.”

Having had phobias and panic attacks herself, which were ultimately eliminated with hypnosis, Biener chose fears and trauma as her niche. By combining Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques with hypnosis, she reduces unwanted, and sometimes devastating anxiety. Since the pandemic, new concerns have surfaced — healthrelated fears, life’s uncertainties, grief, procrastination, weight gain, sleep issues, etc.

“Ignore what you’ve seen in movies; that’s entertainment. A hypnotic trance is a natural state we visit frequently — daydreaming, reading, playing a video game. A hypnotist induces this type of trance to “reframe” the subconscious mind, which rules how we respond. A good subject is strong-willed, intelligent and creative.

The person being hypnotized never wloses control.”

A thorough intake session is done first. The number of hypnosis sessions recommended varies. Motivation and willingness to work on a conscious level are important. Trust and a good rapport with the hypnotist are important.

Formerly a New York City teacher, Biener is certified though the American Board of Hypnotherapy and the National Guild of Hypnotists. She has done speaking engagements for local organizations and wellness centers. Call for a free phone consultation or visit the website.

Terry Biener, CCH (516) 791-6174 www.easychanges.com

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff. (516) 788-7830

• ilovehearing.com

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

realty

Becker

Finding

P. Leatherman

Dr. Abraham Port Dr. George Autz FACR

Stewart Ave., Suite 100 Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-4294

516-222-4880

Anything is possible

By Denise Albert

I’ve interviewed everyone from Hugh Jackman, Jada Pinkett Smith, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Garner to Kevin Hart and Amy Schumer to Michael Jordan, produced David Blaine’s ABC television specials and his new residency at Resorts World (Las Vegas) and lived in jail for a total of 10 days as Deborah Norville’s producer for a series about women incarcerated. I created, produced and hosted three mom-focused fashion shows at Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. I was the subject of an Oprah special and appeared with her to talk about living with my ex-husband, his wife, her ex and all of our kids for six months during the pandemic!

I truly believe anything is possible with hard work, passion and dedication and love every job I’ve had and every thing I’ve been able to do. But there’s nothing I’m more pas sionate about and nothing is more meaning ful than my latest venture, My Cancer Family.

Just about seven years ago, I was diag nosed with early stage but aggressive breast cancer just three months after a “normaL” mammography. I felt a pain and lump in my left breast and listened to myself and the change in my body. Though I was quick to act, it had already spread to my lymph nodes.

At the time, I was the host of “The MOMS” on SiriusXM Stars and co-founder of my com pany The MOMS. I decided to share my story publicly and in doing so, on air, online and on

social media, something really magical hap pened. I started to hear from people all across the country. Other people on cancer journeys, other survivors, people who had experienced what I was going through. Hearing their wis

dom, feeling their love, learning their “cancer hacks”, or what nonprofits they found helpful to keep me positive and going. My “cancer family” helped save my life.

My treatment was almost two years and

aggressive. I had a lumpectomy, six months of three different chemo infusions at one time, six weeks of daily radiation, and another year of two immunotherapy infusions every six weeks. I had a lot of side effects, rashes, lost my hair, eyebrows and lashes (all of which didn’t grow back well), developed Rheumatoid Arthritis, and unrelated, I think, am monitoring a thyroid tumor — and broke my back last summer.

My journey inspired me to create a health and wellness tech platform and community to support all cancer patients and their fami lies in every way that’s non-medical (we love doctors and nurses, but they can’t do it all). My Cancer Family recently launched as a newslet ter and we’re growing and building every day. Sign up at mycancerfamily.com.

I’m proud to be hosting #LightUpMBC Live, a virtual benefit to shine a light on the importance of funding metastatic breast can cer research (Stage 4 ) on Oct. 13, at 9 p.m. The event includes Beyonce’s dad, Matthew Knowles, Daphne Rubin-Vega, Miranda McKeon, Lionel Richie, and an exclusive trib ute to Nightbirde from American Idol.

I’m also so proud to be the first ever hon oree of American Cancer Society’s Making Strides in Central Park! Come walk with me and join My Cancer Family on Oct. 16!

Denise Albert is a special contributor, CEO and Co-Founder My Cancer Family

you can trust, right here on Long Island.

When Susan’s mammogram showed a tiny mass in her breast, she was terrified for what was in store, but the team at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside helped her live to tell her story. Our cancer experts were able to be at her side every step of the way because we o er the full spectrum of cancer care, from chemotherapy to radiation therapy to surgery. Long Islanders are also able to participate in national cancer clinical trials through Mount Sinai, right here in Oceanside.

With this multidisciplinary approach, we help you overcome not only the cancer, but whatever else cancer brings with it.