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.
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. 鈥淚t was the first step toward a wonderful giving experience and the chance to make a difference in someone鈥檚 life,鈥� she says. 鈥淲hat could be better?鈥�
Thirty-six women and one man who have had breast cancer are hotline volunteers.听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.
鈥淏ecause 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,鈥� says social worker Alida Rubenstein, the coordinator of volunteers.听 鈥淲hen 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.鈥� 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,听September 11th, 18th and 25th from听10:00听A to -4:00 PM.听 To find out about volunteering, which includes opportunities for those who have not had breast cancer, contact Ms. Rubenstein at arubenstein@adelphi.edu听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 . You are not alone.
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Photo:听Long Beach resident Judy Platt (left) with another long-term Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline Volunteer, Barbara Bornstein of Freeport.
For further information, please contact:
Todd Wilson
Strategic Communications Director听
p 鈥� 516.237.8634
e 鈥� twilson@adelphi.edu