Queens Medical Associates, a leading oncology and hematology practice and infusion center, hosted an informal presentation on breast cancer education and support on Thursday, Oct. 26. The complimentary event, led by veteran oncology nurse Heather Bain, RN, BSN, OCN, was implemented to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The well-attended session provided a platform for patients, their families and the public to learn more about issues affecting breast cancer patients, as well exchange critical information on living and coping with the disease.
“It’s critical that patients are not only armed with information, but have an ongoing dialogue with their health care provider about ever-changing resources and new treatment options,” explained Bain. “With the right treatment plan in place, and lots of support, a patient’s quality of life can be greatly increased.”
Queens Medical Associates is known for providing accessibility for its patients to participate in clinical trials, allowing faster access to new treatments, which is especially important for those dealing with breast cancer.
Topics discussed during the session included the following:
- Lymphedema in breast cancer patients
- Dealing with fatigue
- Proper nutrition for recovery
- Sexuality after diagnosis
- Family caregiving
- Survivorship
Heather Bain has more than 25 years of progressive oncology experience in the tri-state area. As the nurse navigator at Queens Medical Associates, she guides patients throughout their journey from diagnosis through survivorship. Additional speakers at the forum included Physician Assistants Betsy Cruz, RPA-C and Raisa Matayev, RPA-C, as well as Patient Navigator Ariella Aharon, LMSW.
At this time there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, including women who are currently in or who have completed treatment. A current patient of Queens Medical Associates, Tasha Goode, received an enthusiastic ovation after discussing her journey from diagnosis at Stage lll and recurrence this year to Stage IV.
“We are all here. We are survivors. Every day, wake up and be thankful and go do something good with your life … because you can,” said Goode.
For more information about Queens Medical Associates, visit https://www.queensmedical.com/.
