Faces of Long Island celebrates the uniqueness of everyday Long Islanders. In their own words, they tell us about their life experiences, challenges and triumphs. Newsday launched this social media journey into the human experience to shine a light on the diverse people of this wonderful place we call home.

‘My mastectomy was on April Fools’ Day, and I think I fooled everybody because had I not had the surgery, I probably wouldn’t be here today.’

Jericho

“In 1991, I was 34, married with two children, ages 9 and 6, when on a routine checkup with my primary care doctor, she found a lump in my breast. Nobody in my family had a history of breast cancer. I had none of the risk factors. My husband, my strongest support—we’re married 42 years—supported me through everything. The doctors didn’t want to do a mastectomy. Thankfully, we didn’t listen.

“My husband advocated for me because 30 years ago, women didn’t have as much of a voice as we do now. They agreed to do a mastectomy and additional cancer was found in my breast. My mastectomy was on April Fools’ Day, and I think I fooled everybody because had I not had the surgery, I probably wouldn’t be here today. My journey started during the chemo sessions. I would sit there alone, petrified and nauseous. My oncologist recommended I meet with the oncology social worker; that opened my eyes. He was an emotional support; he validated my feelings. He also told me about the Adelphi Breast Cancer program. I made a phone call to them that changed my life; I joined their support group. They were caring, supportive, nurturing women. After I wanted to give back, so I volunteered at the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline.

If I had not advocated for myself, I wouldn’t be here.

“I decided the journey I needed to take was to become a social worker. In 2009, I became a licensed social worker. I am now a medical social worker for Northwell Health Hospice Care Network. I see patients at the end of their life. My role is to offer them emotional support and educate them about hospice and end of life. A big part of it is advanced directives, specifically health care proxy. Many people come to us without it, and that causes a lot of family struggles.

“I think without a diagnosis of breast cancer 30 years ago, I wouldn’t be where I am today. About five years ago, I had another mastectomy, which required no further treatment. As a hospice social worker, I’m very mindful to make sure my patients get the best care they’re entitled to. I’m a big advocate for all their needs. If I had not advocated for myself, I wouldn’t be here. Women diagnosed with breast cancer should do their homework and reach out for support. There’s a lot of support available.”

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