Freeport Woman Honored by Breast Cancer Program

News from the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Program
May 22, 2018
Contact: Lyn Dobrin, 516-997-8545

Freeport Woman Honored by Breast Cancer Program

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Program recently honored Freeport resident and breast cancer survivor Barbara Bornstein for her long-term service as a hotline volunteer. Ms. Bornstein, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in in 1997 and then again in 2010, became a hotline volunteer 20 years ago. “I wanted to help others who faced the same diagnosis,” she says. “I’ve found it a very rewarding experience.”

Thirty-six women and one man who have had breast cancer are hotline volunteers. The hotline volunteers are required to take an in-depth initial training which includes breast education, development of important skills, such as active listening, community outreach and knowledge of community resources. The volunteers also have continuing education throughout the year.

“Because our hotline volunteers have had breast cancer, it helps them to understand what it is like to receive a breast cancer diagnosis and the needed treatment that will follow,” says social worker Alida Rubenstein, the coordinator of volunteers.  “When our volunteers answer a hotline call the caller knows that the person they are speaking to has walked in their shoes and understands what they are going through.” Ms. Rubenstein says is also reassuring for the caller to know that not only has the volunteer survived her diagnosis and treatment, she is now doing so well that she is volunteering to help others.

The next volunteer training is scheduled for three consecutive Tuesdays, September 11th, 18th and 25th from 10:00 A to -4:00 PM.  To find out about volunteering, which includes opportunities for those who have not had breast cancer, contact Ms. Rubenstein at arubenstein@adelphi.edu or (516) 877-4315.

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program is the oldest breast cancer hotline in the country, established by the Adelphi School of Social Work in 1980. To reach the hotline, call 800-877-8077 or breast-cancer.adelphi.edu. You are not alone.

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Photo: Barbara Bornstein, right, of Freeport, with another long-term Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline Volunteer–Long Beach resident Judy Platt.