Fighting Back for Breast Health Month
One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, making breast cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country. From one end of the East End to another this month, people are banding together to fight back.
Pink Panel Focuses on New Treatments
Peconic Bay Medical Center will hold its Second Annual Pink Panel Agenda at RG|NY Vineyard (formerly Martha Clara Vineyard (at 6025 Sound Avenue in Riverhead on Thursday, Oct. 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
With diagnosis and treatment options constantly evolving, PBMC is bringing together a panel of clinical experts who will present the path from diagnosis to treatment and living with breast cancer.
Presenters include Dr. Jean Cacciabaudo, the hospital’s Cardio-oncology Medical Director; Radiology Chief Bradley Gluck, MD; Dr. Susan Lee, chief of the breast surgery department, genetic counselor Aman Mann, MS, CGC; and Dr. Elizabeth Sieczka, plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
The night will include panel of physicians specializing in the latest breast surgical and treatment options who will answer frequently asked questions about breast cancer and sampling of integrative medicine modalities led by a certified Reiki instructor.
Admission is free, but reservations are required by calling 631. 548.6804. All attendees will be intered in a raffle to win a gift basket, and admission is free.
Shelter Island Run for Patient Care
The 20th Annual Shelter Island Fall 5K Run and 5K Walk, created out of love and memory for those who fight breast and women’s cancers, will be held Saturday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m. at Crescent Beach. The race raises funds and awareness for The North Fork Breast Health Coalition, The Coalition for Women’s Cancers at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital and Lucia’s Angels.
All race proceeds go directly to patient care for women on the East End of Long Island. In addition to medals for the top finishers, awards will be made for the first place breast cancer survivor runner and walker respectively. A prize will also be awarded to the team with the most participants. Registration is $35 for adults, $15 for children 14 and under and free for children 5 and under, and can be done online at shelterislandfall5k.com.
New Southampton Cancer Center Opens Up Free Workshops, Classes & Support Groups
The Phillips Family Cancer Center in Southampton is rolling-out a year-round, on-going schedule of free programs specifically curated for men and women who have been diagnosed with cancer, including those undergoing radiation or medical oncology treatments, or who are in remission. The classes, workshops, support groups, and services are produced and presented free to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers on the East End by Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Wellness Institute.
“Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event for the patient, the patient’s family and friends,” said Jessica Swiatocha, FNP-BC, MSN, Manager of Wellness and Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation & Cardiology NP Services at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. “Our goal is to provide a broad spectrum of programs, classes, and groups that will deliver support throughout every stage of the cancer journey to help enhance healing by improving mind and body strength as well as overall well-being.”
Research shows that a strong support system can help improve the patient experience. Patients get stronger, have better endurance, and less depression.
Current topics and classes that are offered by The Phillips Family Cancer Center include support groups; nutrition education; singing (no prior experience necessary); exercise; yoga; reiki; aqua-cise; and boxing. Many more workshops are in development.
While all the programming is free, registration is required as space is limited. To register and get the latest updates on programming, visit bit.ly/cancerwellness19 call 631.726.8800. For Women’s Cancers (GYN & Breast) Survivors programs, call 631.726.8715.
