Susan G. Komen Impact Luncheon and the Power of Community
Pillar Patient Advocates Sponsors Susan G. Komen Impact Luncheon
Earlier this June, we were honored to participate as a sponsor in the Susan G. Komen Impact Luncheon. The event brought together oncologists, social workers, patients, survivors, and thrivers for a delightful afternoon at the Forsgate Country Club in Monroe, New Jersey. The atmosphere was energetic and supportive as everyone gathered with a shared purpose.
The Impact of Breast Cancer Discussion Panel
During the luncheon, a curated panel discussed the profound impact that breast cancer can have on patients. The well-rounded panel included many different perspectives.
Dr. Mridula George, Associate Program Director of Breast Medical Oncology at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, spoke about the importance of treating the overall patient, not just their cancer. She stressed that when someone is newly diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s crucial for their medical team to ask questions like, “How are you feeling?” “Do you have enough support at home?” “Do you have someone to accompany you to appointments?”. Asking these questions can help providers gauge the emotional state that a patient may be in.
Vincenza Cerami, an Outpatient Oncology Social Worker at Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center, highlighted the importance of providing resources to patients. She elaborated on how access to the right resources can significantly improve the patient’s journey. One of those resources is a sense of community, something that a patient can gain from their friends and family or may be able to find in a support group of patients in similar circumstances.
Anna and Jordan Rathkoff, a married team of artistic storytellers, shared their personal journey following Anna’s breast cancer diagnosis. Jordan spoke about his role as a caregiver and the moment he realized he needed additional support to be the best pillar for his wife and their son. Together, they showcased a series of photographs depicting their family’s journey. Anna also discussed some of the barriers she faces now as a survivor, shedding light on the ongoing challenges post-treatment.
The panel was moderated by the lovely Beth Porreca, who is deeply involved in the Susan G. Komen community. She bravely shared her experiences with a metastatic diagnosis and how her emotions fluctuate due to the uncertainty about her future. Her questions for the panelists were thoughtful and engaging, helping audience members achieve some catharsis.
Fellow Sponsors and Community Leaders
Of the 200 people who enjoyed lunch at the Forsgate Country Club, we were in great company. Some were patients, many were survivors. We had the honor of setting up a table next to fellow sponsors, including the presenting sponsors: Hackensack Meridian Health, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Other sponsors included Allergan Aesthetics, AstraZeneca, Genentech, Pfizer, and the New York Giants.
A portion of the program was dedicated to recognizing the community’s top fundraisers. Fundraising teams are an integral part of Susan G. Komen. Staff also shared that since 2012, Susan G. Komen has contributed funds and feedback to every single breast cancer treatment that was passed by the Food and Drug Administration.
Future Susan G. Komen Events
The New Jersey chapter of Susan G. Komen is highly active, and we look forward to attending more of their events this year. Their signature annual event, the More Than Pink Walk, will be held at Six Flags Great Adventure on Sunday, October 6th. You can use this link to register: Susan G. Komen® – 2024 Komen New Jersey MORE THAN PINK Walk. If you plan to attend the theme park after the walk, use code PINK at checkout on the Six Flags website to unlock a ticket price of $43 for one-day admission. This coupon also offers the opportunity to purchase Daily General Parking for $26 and a Mega Meal Deal for $24. Note that code PINK is set to expire on August 30th, 2024.
On Sunday, November 9th Pillar Patient Advocates will join Susan G Komen at the MBC Impact Conference to connect with the Metastatic Breast Cancer community. The Impact Series will culminate at the conference and provide a space for people living with MBC and their loved ones to gather information related to MBC. The conference will be filled with resources to help patients make decisions about their physical and emotional health. The event is free and will take place at The Study, a hotel in University City, beginning at 9:00 AM. If you plan on attending, stop by our table to say hello and take a look at our MBC resources!
For those not in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, explore the wonderful events Susan G. Komen will be hosting nationwide: Attend Events – Susan G. Komen®.
Expanding Our Involvement
Our participation in the Impact Luncheon is just one of many ways we support the breast cancer community. By sponsoring and attending these events, we aim to foster connections and provide essential resources to those affected by breast cancer. We believe in the power of community and the importance of addressing the comprehensive needs of patients, caregivers, and families. By engaging in these activities, we strengthen our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
