Long Beach Woman Honored by Breast Cancer Program

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

Long Beach Woman Honored by Breast Cancer Program

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Program recently honored Long Beach resident and breast cancer survivor Judy Platt for her long-term service as a hotline volunteer. Ms. Platt, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1994, attended a support group at Adelphi and then became a hotline volunteer, training to answer calls from people concerned about breast cancer. That was 23 years ago and she says it was one of the smartest decisions she has made. “It was the first step toward a wonderful giving experience and the chance to make a difference in someone’s life,” she says. “What could be better?”

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: Long Beach resident Judy Platt (left) with another long-term Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline Volunteer, Barbara Bornstein of Freeport.