This week I call residents’ attention away from Albany politics and to the importance of the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline’s annual Mother’s Day Mammography Campaign. The premise behind the campaign is simple, yet vitally important – urge the women in your life to schedule a mammogram.

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program services almost 500,000 people each year through its hotline, website, counseling services, educational programs, and outreach projects.

“Around Mother’s Day we remind women about the importance of getting mammograms once a year, doing self breast exams, and having their breasts examined regularly by a medical professional,” said Hillary Rutter, Director of Adelphi NY Statewide. “Our motto is: When you take care of yourself, you’re taking care of your family.”

Raising awareness about breast cancer is vital to the health of our loved ones. The advancements that have been made in breast cancer treatment are encouraging; however, early detection is the best way to increase chances of survival and the ability to lead a normal and healthy life, which is why this campaign is so important to our families.

I encourage anyone with breast cancer concerns to call the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and speak with someone who has “been there.” The more than 100 highly trained volunteers offer emotional support, information, and referrals. Social work staff provides professional services. All services are free of charge.

For more information about the campaign, or to locate an accredited mammography facility, call the Adelphi New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program at 800-877-8077. Callers with limited income can also find out about low cost and free mammograms through the hotline.

Finally, I would also like to extend a very happy Mother’s Day to the moms of Western New York. I hope you are able to enjoy your day with loved ones while taking in some much deserved rest and relaxation!