body / mind / fitness October 15, 2026
awareness
We’re Stronger Together
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A daughter’s journey
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A legacy of support
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or For more than four decades, Adelphi’s Breast Cancer Hotline has helped New Yorkers navigate diagnosis, treatment and survivorship — one conversation at a time A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. There are medical decisions to make, unfamiliar terminology to navigate and difficult questions about what comes next. But sometimes, one of the most important things a person needs is much simpler: someone who understands. The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program — among the many local resources — is such a lifeline, providing that connection to those affected by breast cancer. Established in 1980, the program has grown into a statewide resource offering free, confidential support, information and referrals to patients, survivors, caregivers and families. Its hotline is staffed by trained volunteers — many of whom are breast cancer survivors themselves — alongside licensed social workers who provide professional support and guidance. Today, the need remains significant. The American Cancer Society estimates that 321,910 women and 2,670 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2026. An additional 60,730 women are expected to be diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS. An estimated 42,140 women and 530 men will die from breast cancer this year. Behind those numbers are individual stories — stories of uncertainty and resilience, fear and determination, loss and hope. And for many people facing breast cancer, having someone on the other end of the phone who has walked a similar path can make an enormous difference. That is the heart of Adelphi’s message: You are not alone. The program’s support extends far beyond a telephone conversation. The hotline is available daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with texting available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Calls and support are available in both English and Spanish. Through its Peerto-Peer program, individuals can be matched with breast cancer survivors who have experienced similar diagnoses and treatments. Licensed social workers provide counseling and help connect callers with appropriate resources, while support groups, educational programs and community outreach offer additional opportunities for connection. All services are free and confidential. Adelphi has continued to expand its
approach to survivorship as well. In 2025, the program launched its Survivorship, Treatment, Education and Peer Support (STEP) Program, offering licensed social work services, educational workshops, provider training and resources for young women diagnosed with breast cancer, people living with metastatic breast cancer and their families. The program was established with support from a five-year Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant. At the center of all these efforts are the volunteers. Many came to Adelphi during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. They called because they needed information, reassurance or simply someone who would listen without having to explain what a breast cancer diagnosis feels like. Some later chose to become that person for someone else. Their experiences give the program a unique dimension. These volunteers aren’t simply reading from a script or offering well-meaning advice. They bring the perspective of people who have lived through surgery, treatment, uncertainty, recovery and the emotional complexities of survivorship. Working alongside Adelphi’s licensed social workers, they offer something that can be difficult to find during a frightening and isolating time: understanding grounded in experience. Their stories also demonstrate how support can become a circle. Someone reaches out for help. Someone listens. A connection is made. And, in time, that same person may become a source of strength for someone else. That spirit is especially meaningful as Adelphi continues its work in 2026 under the message “Take The First Step. You’re Not Alone.” The campaign encourages people to prioritize their health, schedule recommended mammograms, learn about available breast cancer resources and reach out for support when they need it. The stories that follow offer a glimpse into that mission through the voices of Adelphi’s compassionate volunteers. Their journeys are different, but they share a common thread: the desire to turn a difficult experience into a source of strength for others. Their words are a reminder that breast cancer may change a life, but no one should have to face the journey alone. To learn more about the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, call (800) 877-8077 or visit breastcancer.adelphi.edu.
My mother passed away from breast cancer at the age of 52. As a result, I was always nervous thinking I’d be diagnosed, too. In 2016, I was in the shower and felt a lump; I think my mother was watching over me. I had a biopsy and was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. My treatment included a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. I juggled treatment while working full-time and it was difficult but I am grateful to have a great support system of family and friends. I also have a very positive outlook. I scheduled my last day of chemotherapy on my birthday because I considered it a new birth. Thank God, I’ve Barbara Simonds, been cancer free for 10 years. East Meadow I learned about the Adelphi Breast Cancer Age 81 Program in my local newspaper. It was something I wanted to do to pay it forward. Today, I volunteer on the Breast Cancer Hotline and help on Peer-to-Peer calls where I am matched with someone who has the same diagnosis and treatment. I enjoy talking to people who are in distress and give them hope. They sound better at the end of the phone call than when we first started talking. I find volunteering with the program very rewarding. For someone in the midst of a breast cancer diagnosis, I’d suggest they reach out to an organization. At the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program, all the Hotline volunteers are breast cancer survivors so there’s a wealth of knowledge they can learn from others. As a patient, you have to be as informed, speak up and be your own advocate.
Finding strength in sisterhood In 1994, my husband felt a lump in my breast. After getting a mammogram, I learned I had breast cancer: DCIS Stage 1. I was 36 and underwent chemotherapy, radiationand lumpectomy. My two children were 2.5 and 7 years old. I felt alone taking care of my children, working full-time as a court reporter, and didn’t know anyone who had breast cancer at my age. That’s what made me reach out to the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. After speaking with someone on the breast cancer hotline, I attended a support group for young women. I made good friends and the program helped me tremendously. Even after the supCindy Finke, port group ended, six of us met every month for 25 East Meadow years. It’s a bond we always have. Age 69 In 2000, I experienced heart failure, which was attributed to the radiation. It enlarged the left ventricle of my heart and put me into heart failure. That was a shock. I had a defibrillator implanted that helped keep my heart stable and beating. In 2010, at 53, breast cancer returned but this time it was more aggressive. I had a mastectomy and chemotherapy. Treatment was challenging due to complications with my heart. Over a decade later, in 2022 I had a heart transplant and now I’m 4.5 years post-transplant feeling better than I have in 25 years. I am also 16 years cancer free! Adelphi helped me so much that I always knew when I retired I wanted to give back. In 2018, I became a volunteer. I was very anxious to give back to those who helped me and connect with women going through treatment because I had been through so many different kinds of treatment and I have a lot to give. Having a shift on the breast cancer hotline is very gratifying, I also support the program with community outreach. I tell people that a healthy lifestyle, a positive attitude, my faith, and support from family, friends and co-workers are so important. It makes healing easier, and it makes you appreciate your life more and it keeps you healthier. I have such a happy life now because I make it that way. I say, how can I live my best life? How can I make today glorious?
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Face the unknown while staying grounded in what matters most By Karen Bloom
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ed ahead can feel uncertain, with new challenges emerging at every stage. There is no single right way to navigate a cancer diagnosis. But those who have traveled the road before often offer the same advice: Accept support. Stay informed. Speak up. And, as much as possible, remember to take care of yourself along the way. Don’t try to do it alone Allow yourself to accept support. That can be difficult, especially if you’re accustomed to taking care of everyone else. But a cancer diagnosis is a time to let others take care of you, too. Say yes when family and friends offer practical help with meals, shopping, transportation, household chores or other everyday responsibilities. People who care about you may feel helpless and want to contribute in a meaningful way. Be specific about what you need, and let them know what is — and isn’t — helpful. The emotional toll of cancer can be significant, too. Fear, anger, sadness, anxiety, uncertainty and even moments of relief or optimism can all be part of the experience. There is no prescribed way to feel. Find healthy ways to process your emotions, whether that means talking with someone you trust, joining a support group, working with a counselor or therapist, praying or meditating, or keeping a journal. If feelings of anxiety, depression or distress become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, tell your health care team. Emotional support is an important part of cancer care, and help is available.
Enlist your medical team Build a relationship with a health care team you trust — one that listens to your concerns, explains your options and makes you feel comfortable asking questions. Make the most of every appointment. Write down questions beforehand and keep a running list as new ones arise. If possible, bring a family member or friend to appointments. A second set of ears can help you remember information, take notes and provide emotional support. Be open with your doctors and other members of your care team about your daily life, concerns and priorities. Your treatment plan may need to take into account more than your diagnosis alone. Tell your team about symptoms, side effects, medications and supplements, as well as concerns about work, caregiving, finances, fertility, sexuality, sleep, nutrition or other issues that may affect your well-being. And don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t understand.” Ask your team to explain unfamiliar terms or repeat information when necessary. You are not expected to know how to navi-
Cancer may become part of your story, but it does not define who you are.
gate cancer care from the start. Take control of information overload When a diagnosis brings a flood of questions, it can be difficult to quiet your mind. Keep a notebook or notes app nearby and write down questions as they occur to you. Instead of lying awake wondering “what if?” make a note of the question and who on your care team can help answer it. The internet can be a valuable source of information, but choose your sources care-
fully. Look first to trusted organizations such as the National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society and major cancer centers. Your health care team can also recommend reliable resources specific to your diagnosis. Remember that cancer is not one disease, and statistics found online may not apply to you. Breast cancers, for example, can differ by type, stage and biomarkers, and treatment and prognosis can vary widely. Resist the temptation to compare your experience with someone else’s based on an online
story or statistic. Your care team is in the best position to explain what information means in the context of your individual diagnosis. It can also help to give your mind a break. Read a book, work a puzzle, knit, listen to music, watch a favorite show, spend time with friends or return to a hobby you enjoy. A few moments of distraction aren’t ignoring your cancer; they’re giving yourself room to breathe. Be good to yourself A cancer diagnosis can make it easy to focus exclusively on what lies ahead. Instead, give yourself credit for what you are managing right now. Getting through an appointment, making a difficult decision, asking a question or simply getting through a challenging day can be an accomplishment. Try to take things one day — or even one moment — at a time. It’s natural to worry about the future, but you don’t have to solve every unknown at once. When worries become overwhelming, bring them back to the questions you can address today. And whenever you can, take a break from cancer. Make room for the people, places and activities that bring you comfort or joy. Have dinner with a friend. Take a walk. Watch a favorite movie. Listen to music. Laugh. Do something simply because you enjoy it. Cancer may be an important part of your life right now, but it is not all of who you are. Most of all, give yourself permission to put your own well-being higher on the list. Let go of the expectation that you have to handle everything perfectly. Accept help. Rest when you need to. Speak up when something doesn’t feel right. Give yourself time to adjust to a life that may look different than you expected. A cancer diagnosis can affect you physically, mentally and emotionally. There may be difficult days, uncertain days and days that surprise you with their normalcy. You don’t have to navigate every step alone. With support, reliable information and a health care team you trust, you can face the road ahead one step at a time.
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BREAST
CANCERGuide SUPPORT/RESOURCE ADELPHI NY STATEWIDE BREAST CANCER SUPPORT & HOTLINE
LEAN ON ME BREAST CANCER NETWORK INC.
More than 100 highly trained volunteers offer emotional support, information and referrals, all free. Social work staff 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
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.
SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation site provides updated cancer research and offers 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 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering all women affected 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 financial assistance. A Long Island office is located in Woodbury. Cancer Care, Inc. 800-813-HOPE 516-364-8130 (Long Island) www.cancercare.org
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 offering 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 financial support to insured patients, who must financially 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 Nonprofit 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
SUPPORT/RESOURCE
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SHARE: SUPPORT SERVICES FOR WOMEN WITH BREAST OR OVARIAN CANCER
Offers 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 fight against cancer. Free information on treatment, reconstruction, sexuality and relationships. Offers 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
ROCKVILLE CENTRE BREAST CANCER COALITION
NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE
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.
Provides information on all aspects of cancer and on clinical trials.
Dedicated to addressing the concerns and issues unique to young women with breast cancer.
National Cancer Institute 800-4-CANCER www.cancer.gov
Young Survival Coalition 877-YSC-1011 www.youngsurvival.org
CLEANING FOR A REASON
LEAN ON ME BREAST CANCER NETWORK
The Breasties mission is to empower those affected 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
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.
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 fittings.
A WORLD OF PINK (AWOP)
Educational breast health programming focusing on breast cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, early detection and risk reduction. Presentations offered at no charge for high schools, colleges, community groups and businesses. Maurer Foundation For Breast Health Education 631-524-5151 www.maurerfoundation.org
Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition www.rvcbcc.org
THE BREASTIES
This nonprofit 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 fly-fishing, 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, financial assistance and transportation services. Manhasset Women’s Coalition Against Breast Cancer (MWCABC) 516-627-2410 www.manhassetbreastcancer.org
NUMC BREAST IMAGING CENTER
PINK AID
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/
Through a partnership with Support Connection, Pink Aid offers a support hotline for breast cancer patients and survivors. Services offered include ongoing emotional support and navigational support to help in finding resources. The hotline is open Monday to Friday yearround. Pink Aid 1-800-532-4290 www.pinkaid.org
Cleaning For A Reason 877-337-3348 www.cleaningforareason.org
MAURER FOUNDATION FOR BREAST HEALTH EDUCATION
PINK PURSE Provides emergency aid for individuals who need support due to their breast cancer diagnosis. Funds are offered 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 financial assistance while suffering 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
YOUNG SURVIVAL COALITION
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 offers 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@fivewishes.org www.fivewishes.org
ROCKING THE ROAD FOR A CURE Rocking the Road for a Cure Inc., is a community-based non-profit 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
Free mammograms, ultrasounds, molecular breast imaging and biopsies to qualified medically underserved and uninsured residents of Nassau and Suffolk County.
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 offers related resources for Jewish communities and health care organizations.
Mercy Medical Center Breast Cancer Survivorship Program 516-705-1399 mercymedicalcenter.chsli.org
Sharsheret 866-474-2774 info@sharsheret.org www.sharsheret.org
MERCY MEDICAL CENTER BREAST CANCER SURVIVORSHIP PROGRAM
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CANCER Guide BREAST
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From the director’s desk:
OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY X 00, 0000NEWSPAPERS — Y HERALD
Take the first step. You are not alone. By Reyna Machado At the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, we offer licensed social work services, programs, and events – all of which are free to the New Yorkers. Take the first step and remember, you are not alone in your journey with breast cancer. Whether you meet one of our bilingual social workers, speak to a volunteer on the breast cancer hotline, or meet our Outreach Coordinator at an event, our program is here to support you during your breast cancer journey. Since 1980, the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program has provided free social work services, support Reyna Machado groups, a breast cancer hotline, education, patient advocacy and more. This fall, and always, we encourage women to schedule their annual mammogram, encourage others to do the same, and take the first step towards their health. Early detection can lead to less invasive treatments and better outcomes. With the dedication of our staff and volunteers, our program’s mission is to educate and support patients, professionals, and the breast cancer community. This fall, the Adelphi Program launches its 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness campaign with the powerful theme “Take The First Step. You’re Not Alone.” The program provides social work services based on the needs of the community. We offer a variety of support groups, all of which are facilitated by one of our licensed social workers. This fall, our support groups include: Newly Diagnosed (women diagnosed within the past 18 months), Young Breast Cancer Support group (women aged 45 years old and under), Metastatic Support Group, Hormone Therapy, and Cafecito (Spanish language support group). We also provide free educational forums, breast health workshops, a video series, and more. On Nov. 10 we will hold a virtual forum titled “Eating Well During Breast Cancer Treatment” with Karla Giboyeaux, MA, RDN, CDN, Clinical Dietitian Nutritionist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. We will also hold our Warriors Book Club on Nov. 16 where we will discuss “The Missing Pages” by Alyson Richman. Our hotline is staffed by volunteers who are breast cancer survivors themselves. They offer not only resources by a listening ear. We are proud of the services we provide and want to remind the breast cancer community that we are here for support. No one should go through this journey alone. The breast cancer community is filled with strength, resilience, and hope. Our program is available 365 days a year. If you or a loved one is looking for support, remember, you are not alone. Reyna Machado MA, MBA, is Executive Director of the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program
By the numbers
Stay vigilant and know the facts Breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosed in U.S. women, other than skin cancer, and the second-leading cause of cancer death among women, after lung cancer. About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. Breast cancer can also affect men, although it is less common. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026, 321,910 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States, along with 60,730 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). An estimated 42,140 women will die from the disease. Among men, about 2,670 new invasive breast cancer cases and 530 deaths are expected in 2026. The numbers also tell a story of progress. Breast cancer death rates have fallen percent since their peak in 1989, a decline attributed to earlier detection and advances in treatment. At the same time, incidence continues to rise, underscoring the importance of risk awareness and appropriate screening. The numbers at a glance • About 1 in 3 — The share of all new cancers diagnosed in U.S. women that are breast cancer, excluding skin cancers. • Greater than 99 percent — The five-year relative survival rate when invasive breast cancer is diagnosed at the localized stage. • 92 percent — The overall five-year relative survival rate for invasive female breast cancer across all stages combined. For regional disease, the rate is 87 percent; for distant disease, it is 32 percent. • 63 — The median age at which women are diagnosed with breast cancer. About 1 in 10women diagnosed are younger than 45. • 44 percent — The decline in the U.S. breast cancer death rate from its peak in 1989 through 2023. • 4.3 million — The number of women living in the U.S. with a history of breast cancer as of Jan. 1, 2025. The ACS projects that number will reach about 5.3 million by 2035. • Nearly twice the risk — Having one first-degree relative, such as a mother, sister or daughter, with breast cancer almost doubles a woman’s risk. Having two first-degree relatives with breast cancer can triple the risk. Still, most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. • 38 percent higher — The breast cancer death rate among Black women compared with white women, despite Black women having a slightly lower incidence rate. • 150 to 300 minutes — The amount of moderate-intensity physical activity the ACS recommends adults get each week; 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity is another option. Regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. • More than 30 percent — The ACS estimates that more than 30 percent of breast cancers may be preventable through healthy behaviors, including regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and breastfeeding. Courtesy American Cancer Society
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The First Mondays Cancer Care Charter Salon In Nassau County 1344 Broadway, Hewlett • 516-295-4011 @theambiancesalon • theambiancesalon.com
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early 2,400 women on preserve as much of the Long Island (and nearly healthy breast and 300,000 in the United States) surrounding tissue as possible. will be diagnosed with breast If mastectomy, an operation to cancer over the next year. remove the breast, is required, Studies indicate that breast there are many options for cancer patients who get their breast reconstruction. These care close to home achieve include implant and tissue better health outcomes and reconstruction and nipplequality of life. sparing mastectomy, among Mount Sinai South Nassau others. remains committed to offering Implant reconstruction a community-based, involves placing the implant comprehensive, and beneath the skin and over the collaborative network of breast chest muscle. If safe and health services. appropriate for the patient, Christine Hodyl, DO In addition to the new breast nipple-sparing mastectomy Director of Breast Health Services at imaging, biopsy, and removes breast tissue, but Mount Sinai South Nassau and her team chemotherapy services at provide a full range of clinical and support leaves the nipple, areola, and services for breast cancer patients. Mount Sinai-Wantagh, the breast skin intact. Other hospital’s network includes approaches require taking Mount Sinai Doctors-Greenlawn Breast Health, excess tissue from another part of the body and the Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center in transferring it to the chest wall. This procedure Valley Stream, Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast is known for its long-lasting results and natural Health, and Mount Sinai South Nassau Women’s appearance. Imaging in Oceanside. Surgery for invasive breast cancer may also “Our physicians work together to provide the involve nearby lymph nodes. Additional full spectrum of clinical and support services, treatments, such as hormonal therapy, radiation from clinical studies to screening and diagnosis therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of to treatment and counseling,” said Christine them, may follow surgery. To reduce hair loss Hodyl, DO, Director of Breast Health Services. during chemotherapy, eligible patients are Detecting cancer in its earliest stage saves offered DigniCap® scalp cooling therapy. lives. The American Cancer Society recommends As an approved National Clinical Trial that women may begin annual screening Network Affiliate site within the Mount Sinai mammograms at age 40. However, for those at Health System, Mount Sinai South Nassau is increased risk due to genetic mutations like seeking patients for a clinical study to BRCA1/BRCA2, or women who have received determine whether digital mindfulness radiation therapy in the past to treat cancers meditation-based intervention can support the such as breast, lung or esophageal the screening mental health of younger breast cancer recommendation is as early as age 30. survivors with symptoms of depression. The Radiologists at the Center for Women’s study compares the effectiveness of live, Imaging use advanced technologies, including instructor-led mindfulness intervention delivered digital mammography, high-resolution over Zoom to an app-based, self-paced ultrasound, and breast MRI, to detect breast program. disease in its earliest stage. Genetic counseling Eligible participants include breast cancer is also available. survivors who were diagnosed at or before age If a malignant lesion is detected, Dr. Hodyl 50, have completed their primary treatment at and Mount Sinai South Nassau’s team of breast least six months before the trial start date, and surgeons use advanced techniques that aim to report depressive symptoms. Call (516) 632-
3312 or (516) 632-3349 for enrollment information. Education and advocacy are essential pillars of the comprehensive care provided by Mount Sinai South Nassau Breast Health, which will host its annual Breast Cancer Awareness Event on Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in the hospital’s conference center. To register, call (516) 632-3346. Meanwhile the Center for Women’s Imaging (located at 440 Merrick Road), in collaboration with the hospital’s Community Education Department, will host its annual No-cost Breast Screening Day on Sunday, October 25. An appointment is required and can be scheduled by calling (516) 255-8220. The hospital’s Vaxmobile offers no-cost, no-appointmentnecessary breast cancer risk assessment. For the Vaxmobile’s schedule, email vaxmobile@ mountsinai.org or call (516) 377-5333. Mount Sinai South Nassau is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and is an American College of Radiology-designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center. To schedule a consultation or for more information, call (516) -632-3350 or visit mountsinai.org/southnassau
One Healthy Way Oceanside, NY 11572 • 877-SOUTH-NASSAU (877-768-8462) • www.mountsinai.org/southnassau Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.
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Comprehensive breast cancer care close to home
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month Event Knowing breast cancer exists is not enough. Join us for a seminar on breast health. Guest Speakers:
Christine Hodyl, Director, Breast Services
Jessica Coyer, PsyD, PMH-C Manager, Ambulatory Behavioral Health
Mindy Scheer, DO Director of Breast Imaging, Center for Women’s Imaging
Gail Crawford, MSN, RN Clinical Program Manager
Diana Tjaden, PT, DPT, CLT Clinical Director, Full Circle Ivy Rehab
Geri Barish Executive Director, Hewlett House
Joanna Formont, LMHC Executive Director, SIBSPlace
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 10 am - 2 pm Mount Sinai South Nassau Conference Center IN-PERSON, or on ZOOM for those unable to join in person. Registration required for Zoom, please register by October 18 by scanning the QR Code, or by visiting: https://mountsinai.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m5v_WuUyTDSIu0HBM4RVfQ#/registration For more information, please call Camiele Ward, 516-632-3350. Early Detection Saves Lives | La Detección Temprana Salva Vidas This event designates 3 CME / CNE *None of the planners for this educational activity have relevant financial relationship(s) to disclose with ineligible companies whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients. *The speaker has no relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose. *No commercial support was received for this activity. Mount Sinai South Nassau is accredited by The Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Mount Sinai South Nassau designates this live activity for a maximum of (3) AMAPRA Category 1 Credits.™ Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.