body / mind / fitness October 15, 2026
awareness
We’re Stronger Together
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A daughter’s journey
OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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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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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — OCTOBER 15, 2026
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OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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ctober is National Audiology Awareness Month. Hearing loss rarely arrives as silence. More often, people sound as though they mumble, restaurants become exhausting, and the television gets louder. Dr. Keith Darrow of Hearing and Brain Centers of America shares eight things worth knowing. 1. You hear with your brain. Ears collect sound; the brain interprets it. When signals weaken, listening takes more effort. Hearing loss can increase cognitive strain even when it seems mild. 2. Hearing is not understanding. You may hear someone speaking yet miss the words, especially in background noise. A speech-innoise test can reveal difficulties a screening misses. 3. Listening can be tiring. Straining to follow conversation may leave you fatigued, irritable or struggling to remember what was said.
4. Hearing affects connection. Repeated misunderstandings can lead people to withdraw from family gatherings and activities they enjoy. 5. Ringing deserves attention. Persistent or worsening tinnitus should be evaluated. It may affect sleep, focus and mood. Sudden hearing loss requires immediate medical care. 6. Balance matters too. Hearing and balance systems share the inner ear. Dizziness, unsteadiness or unexplained falls
warrant assessment. Sudden or severe symptoms need medical attention. 7. Noise adds up over time. Lower earbud volume, take breaks from loud places and wear hearing protection when needed. Ringing after loud events is a warning sign. 8. Care continues beyond a device. A comprehensive evaluation, individualized treatment and followup help address hearing clarity and changing needs.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — OCTOBER 15, 2026
There are Eight Things You May Not Know About Your Hearing Hearing loss has been associated with cognitive decline, falls and social isolation, though it does not by itself cause dementia. Dr. Darrow encourages people to catch changes early. If conversations are becoming work, consider a comprehensive hearing evaluation. To schedule with Hearing and Brain Centers of America, visit hearingandbraincenters.com or call (516) 212-0691. Request Dr. Darrow’s book, Preventing Decline, at www.hbcabookoffer.com.
Call (516) 212-0691 or visit www.hearingandbraincenters.com to schedule your appointment today!
Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies or purchases made through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.
Request your FREE copy of Dr. Darrow’s Book, Preventing Decline Visit: HBCAbookoffer.com
Don’t wait until hearing loss changes your life. MAKE YOUR HEARING A PRIORITY. Call today to schedule your comprehensive hearing evaluation.
Call (516) 212-0691 hearingandbraincenters.com
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THIS OCTOBER,
OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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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
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — OCTOBER 15, 2026
CANCER Guide BREAST
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From the director’s desk:
OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — OCTOBER 15, 2026
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OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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HEALTH MEMO
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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.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — OCTOBER 15, 2026
Comprehensive breast cancer care close to home
OCTOBER 15, 2026 — BREAST CANCER AWARENESS — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
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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.