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Women facing breast cancer often experience shock, anxiety, and fear. They often feel an immediate need for support, detailed and accurate information, and practical advice. The Breast Cancer Bridge Program at South Jersey Healthcare was created to meet those needs in a timely and personal way.
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Doris N. Moore, R.N., a breast and ovarian cancer survivor, designed the highly respected program and acts as its coordinator at SJH Elmer Hospital. Ruth Ann Bishop-Sotak, R.N., BA, MS, a master’s prepared nurse and breast cancer survivor, now also offers the program at the RMC.
"When people are diagnosed with cancer, they need answers
to questions they don't know to ask and access to resources
they don't know exist," said Moore.
"The Breast Cancer Bridge is here to assist them." 
The Breast Cancer Bridge Program pairs women who have abnormal mammograms, newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, and women on the cancer journey with the nurses who serve as health care advocates. Bishop-Sotak and Moore enlist the help of volunteers and an advisory board (healthcare professionals and cancer survivors) to offer patients support, information about tests, procedures, treatments, and practical tips for coping with the challenges of the disease.
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“The Breast Cancer Bridge Program is truly unique because it provides individualized support for women,” said Bishop-Sotak. “We design educational packets for each woman based on her needs, which is a very thoughtful approach to care in this day and age of fast-paced information.”
Dr. Robert Hauck also plays a vital role on the SJH breast cancer care team. As a member of the Radiology Department, he specializes in reading mammograms and providing his expertise in Women’s Imaging for breast health.
SJH’s team of health care professionals offers a continuum of breast cancer services, providing patients with comprehensive care and peace of mind through their cancer journey. The Bridge nurses have developed a vital knowledge base of area resources for women with cancer, presenting this valuable information with a personal touch.
Through a partnership with Hadassah of Cumberland County, the coordinators also visit local high schools teaching breast and testicular self-exam practices to high school seniors.
“These community programs provide a wonderful opportunity to educate young people about cancer, early detection, and being their own best advocate” said Bishop-Sotak. “Early detection improves the odds of surviving the disease and educating young women provides them with valuable information that can one day save their lives.”
The program has received national recognition from health care professionals, as well as several grants from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Soroptimists International of Cumberland County also recognized the program last year with its Community Service Award. The award is given to organizations that exist to serve others and provide support to people in the community who would not otherwise receive assistance.
“I’m excited about the recognition and grant funding that we have received because it has allowed us to expand the program and help more patients,” said Moore. “By providing community education and complementary medicine programs such as art and poetry writing workshops, wellness seminars, peer speaker programs and cancer screenings, we can empower patients with knowledge and help to reduce the paralysis caused by the worry and fear of breast cancer.”
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