Introduction

All of us at Fighting Chance are delighted that the 2007 edition
of our Guide is being published in partnership with CancerCare.
Founded in 1944, CancerCare now has a nationwide reach and
serves more than 90,000 people each year from cancer patients to
their caregivers. They receive the hightest quality support services
including counseling, education and financial assistance.

To reach CancerCare call 1-800-813-HOPE or use their website:
www.cancercare.org.  Fighting Chance is a Suffolk County non-profit organization
established in 2001. We've learned about cancer by fighting it. In
addition to our professional staff, most of us are cancer survivors and
others have been caregivers to loved ones with the disease.

We've gained a lot of practical experience about coping with
cancer. Our aim is to share that experience and skill with cancer
patients and those who care for them, across the East End of Long
Island. One way we do that is with our guide, which is meant to be
like a "yellow pages" for cancer care resources in this area.

All of the services provided by CancerCare and Fighting Chance
are free of charge.

Sincerely,

Duncan N. Darrow
Chairman of the Board
Fighting Chance

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Using this Guide

Understanding how to use this guide starts with understanding Fighting Chance
and how we think about coping with cancer.

As healthcare providers, cancer survivors and caregivers of loved ones, we
believe that coping with cancer begins with you.

Who you are, your hopes and dreams, your community of family and friends
will be your life preserver.

Creating that life preserver may feel daunting right now. Fighting Chance
aims to make this process easier by helping you answer your most pressing
questions:

  • How can I mobilize my resources?
  • What is my game plan?
  • How can I get organized?
  • What is the best way for me to set priorities and make the wisest choices?

People coping with cancer face common challenges. Each of the 16 chapters
in this guide explains these hurdles and provides practical suggestions for
dealing with them.

If you have been told you have cancer... think Fighting Chance

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Board of Directors and Staff

Betsy Battle has been a Wall Street executive for over two decades. Betsy also spends time at her home in Wainscott and is a breast cancer survivor.

Tony Brandt is a long-time resident of Sag Harbor and noted essayist, whose most recent work includes editing the journals of Lewis and Clark...his brother battled cancer.

Duncan Darrow is a lawyer who splits his time between New York and Sag Harbor, his mother died of cancer two years ago, helping to inspire his involvement in the field of cancer care by enlisting community volunteers...also trained as a hospice volunteer.

Sue Davies is a prominent member of the East Hampton community and supportive of many local organizations for years; her mother recently died of cancer. Sue has extensive experience with cancer care challenges on the East End.

Ben Gillikin has been a senior executive in the cosmetics industry for the past 38 years. Recently he retired from corporate life to pursue new business ventures. With his wife Deb, they are now spending more time in their East Hampton home...his sister recently battled cancer.

Renu Hausen, M.D. is a board-certified radiation oncologist and the director of North Fork Radiation Oncology located in Riverhead. She is a member of the medical staffs of Southampton Hospital, Peconic Bay Medical Center, and Eastern Long Island Hospital. She has been serving patients on both the North and the South Forks since 1999.

Richard Ives' career has spanned mountain guide in the Himalayas to noted novelist.. .he now lives in Sag Harbor with his wife and two children....and is a survivor of colon cancer.

Sister Anne Marino, R.S.H.M. runs CorMaria Retreat Center in Sag Harbor; a long-time community leader and a cancer survivor.

Gilbert C. Meister, Jr...long-time investment fund manager who, with his wife Doris and their two children, divides his time between homes in New York City and East Hampton.....a kidney cancer survivor.

Linda Melville... a business executive who, with her husband Bill, splits time between homes in New York and Amagansett.

Linda obtained her divinity school degree at mid-career and is active in the Episcopal Church...her father died of cancer a few years ago.

Cheryl Merser...a long-time resident of Sag Harbor, where her daughter attends school, and noted writer of books on a wide range of cultural and life-style topics. Cheryl has been a devoted caregiver to close friends who have battled cancer.

Gail Parker is the Principal of the Middle School in East Hampton and a leading figure in public education on Long Island. Gail lost her father to cancer.

Rev. Darwin Price graduated from Harvard Divinity School and has been an Episcopal minister for over 25 years and a Chaplain for the US Air Force for the past six years. . . he now serves as Rector of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in East Hampton.

Grace Price has had a long career in education while raising four children with her husband, Darwin. Grace is a survivor of breast cancer.. . Randy Price, an accomplished artist and outdoorsman and son of Darwin and Grace Price, recently died of cancer.

Carolyn Snyder has roots in East Hampton going back for 10 generations and is matriarch of one of the largest family arms on the East End. She also has been a leader of the local library and Episcopal church and the East Hampton Centennial Celebrations....her father died of cancer.

Ed Tirrell ... a Wall Street executive for 25 years living in New York with his wife and son, who often visits the East End.  Both of  parents died of cancer and Ed has an  abiding interest in cancer care issues.

Staff

Karrie Robinson ...................................... Director, Clinical Programs

Jessica Berlin .......................................... Director, Internet Outreach

Heather Matthews ................................... Patient Navigator

Charles Grubb ......................................... Senior Advisor & IT Support

Mauline Davis...........................................Administrative Support

Friends of Fighting Chance

A growing group of individuals and businesses contribute from $50 to $5,000 each year to
help ensure that this Guide, the website and outreach support provided by Fighting Chance
are made available free of charge to our community. As a Friend, you will receive our biannual
newsletter and receive invitations to special events.

Fighting Chance is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all contributions are fully tax-deductible.
Checks can be made payable to Fighting Chance and sent to us at P.O. Box 1358, Sag
Harbor, New York, 11963. Donations can also be made via credit card either on our website
(www.fightingchance.org) or by calling our office at (631) 725-4646.

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Doctors

Dealing with cancer means dealing with doctors, oftentimes many doctors. So, selecting a
network of people to be on your medical team, to include as part of your life preserver, is
crucial for both your physical and emotional health.

Challenge:..How do I find the right doctor(s) for me?

Solution:..If you are reading this guide, most likely you or your loved one have already
been diagnosed with cancer. In many cases a primary care physician refers patients to an
oncologist, a physician who specializes in the treatment of cancer.

The focus in this guide is on doctors who provide treatment of cancer. Doctors who most often provide treatment of cancer are surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists.

The most common forms of treatment for cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy (biologic therapy).

Surgery involves removing cancerous tissue/tumors from the body. Surgical oncologists
specialize in surgical aspects of cancer including staging, biopsy and resection of tumors.

Chemotherapy is the use of a chemical agent to attack and kill cancerous cells. Chemotherapy
can be administered intravenously and orally and may be received in a hospital, an outpatient
medical oncologist's office or at home.

Radiation Therapy is the use of high dose x-rays to kill cancer cells. Typically, radiation
therapy is given on an outpatient basis in hospitals or radiation treatment centers. Radiation
oncologists utilize CT scans, MRI, bone scans and PET scans for assessment.

Immunotherapy, also know as biologic therapy, is treatment to stimulate or restore the ability of your body's immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy can also be given to lessen the side effects of certain cancer treatments.

Selecting a doctor

As you begin your search for a doctor, be sure to check his/her credentials. One way to do
that is to ask your doctor if he or she is Board Certified. Becoming a licensed, Board Certified
physician means meeting the most rigorous training and continuing education standards
offered in the field of medicine.

Certification of physicians is done by medical specialty boards, recognized by the American
Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and the American Medical Association (AMA). This
is a way to tell consumers that the doctors with these credentials have successfully completed approved training and have passed an evaluation process assessing their ability to provide quality patient care in their specialty.

Board certification is time-limited and, to maintain their certification, doctors are periodically
reevaluated. They must present evidence of licensure and the scope of their practice and
pass an examination every 7 to 10 years, depending on the specialty.

Board certification is a good indication that your doctor has made a commitment to continuing
education and is keeping up with the latest findings in his or her field.

Check the "Physician Select" service of the website of the American Medical Association.
This gives you lists of doctors, by specialty, who practice near you. You can also check on
training and board certification at: http://www.ama-assn.org/aps/amahg.htm

(Source www.webmd.com)

Tip #1 ...Your Medical Team

On the East End there are many outstanding"GPs," meaning physicians who are in general
practice. A general practioner also can be known as your "primary care physician."
The diagnosis of cancer can begin with your GP. During an annual checkup, for example,
a GP may see something of concern and order further tests which may or may not confirm
that a patient has cancer.

But the treatments for cancer occur under specialists - such as the many exceptional
oncologists listed in the Guide. They should have good communication with a patient's GP
and, together, these doctors form the core of a cancer patient's medical team.

ONCOLOGY

Your oncologist will most likely be the central person on your medical team, helping
coordinate all aspects of your treatment with other practitioners. The oncologist will often
treat cancer by administering chemotherapy. Many physicians employ nurse practitioners
who also can assist you with your treatment issues. Below you will find a listing of oncology
practices as well as individual oncologists in your area.

Eastern Long Island Hematology Oncology
1333 East Main St.
Riverhead, NY 11901Riverhead, NY 11901631-727-8500
Louis Avvento, M.D. ...................................................................... Board Certified
Alex Zuhoski, M.D. ....................................................................... Board Certified
Cynthia Cicanowicz, Adult Nurse Practitioner-c
Melanie Acierno, Adult Nurse Practitioner-c
Sharon Sparacino, Adult Nurse Practitioner-c

North Shore Hematology Oncology Assoc. www.nshoa.com
285 Sills Road, Building 16     887 Old Country Road
Patchogue, NY 11772             Riverhead, NY 11901
631-758-7575                       631-727-3215
Michael Fried, M.D. ...................................................................... Board Certified
Shahid Nawaz, M.D. ..................................................................... Board Certified
Jung-Yong Kim, M.D. ................................................................... Board Certified
Stanley Ostrow, M.D. .................................................................... Board Certified

Dr. Ostrow also practices at
235 Belle Mead Road, East Setauket, NY 11733......................... 631-751-5151

Peconic Regional Hematology Oncology
36 Osprey Avenue         54075 Main Road
Riverhead, NY 11901     Southold, NY 11971
631-727-3000               631-765-4600
Marilyn A. McLaughlin, M.D. .........................................Board Certified

Twin Forks Hematology Oncology, P.C.
201 Manor Place             1267 East Main Street
Eastern LI Hospital         Riverhead, NY 11901
Greenport, NY 11944       631-477-0025
631-727-7100
Susan S. Emanuele, M.D. ............................................................. Board Certified

Barry L. Strauss, M.D. Board Certified
353 Meeting House Lane...................................................................631-283-6611
Southampton, NY 11968

Patchogue Medical Oncology
285 Sills Road, Building 16, Suite D.................................................631-758-7575
Patchogue, NY 11772

St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center
50 Route 25A, Smithtown, NY 11781........................................... ...631-862-3000

Theodore G. Gabig, M.D.
Assistant Director, Stony Brook University Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY 11794
Lung Cancer ......................................................................................631-444-2981
Hematology .......................................................................................631-444-2540

Christopher S.D. Lee, M.D.
Director of Urologic Oncology, Stony Brook University Cancer Center
Stony Brook, NY 11794 ....................................................................631-444-6270/1910

Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy or radiotherapy uses ionizing radiation as a "bladeless knife" to destroy
active cancer cells in the body. The goal of radiation is to kill cancer cells without harming
the healthy tissue. Below, you will find a listing of radiation therapy practices.

Stony Brook University Hospital
Nicolls Road and Health Sciences Drive Intersection
Stony Brook, NY 11794 ....................................................................631-444-2200
Wyman Bethune, M.D. .....................................................................Board Certified
Boon Soon Kim, M.D. ......................................................................Board Certified
Allen Meek, M.D........................................................... ..Board Certified
Tae Park, M.D. ..................................................................................Board Certified
Edward Valentine, M.D. ....................................................................Board Certified
Tamara Weiss, M.D. ..........................................................................Board Certified

North Fork Radiology & Radiation Oncology
1333 Roanoke Avenue - Suite 102
Riverhead, NY 11901 .............................................................631-727-2755 ext. 400
Renu Hausen, M.D. ................................................................Board Certified

Tip #2 ... Planning for Radiation

Radiation is a time-consuming process; treatments typically last for six weeks, five days
a week.

There are not many radiation treatment centers on the East End - so think about
transportation. If the cancer patient is elderly, it can be helpful if friends and family
share the many days of driving.

If the cancer patient is working, it is also prudent to consider a reduced or altered work schedule during the period of radiation treatments.

American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO)

ASCO is a worldwide professional organization representing physicians who diagnose and
treat people with cancer. The doctors of ASCO set patient care standards and lead the way
for research and treatment of cancers around the world. ASCO recommends the following
guidelines when choosing an oncologist and treatment facility:

  • Choose an oncologist with broad experience in the treatment of your particular cancer.
  • Choose a hospital/medical facility that sees a large volume of patients and conductsclinical research, including clinical trials.
  • Choose an oncologist who belongs to ASCO or other professional societies as they are committed to continuing medical education and providing the best practices in patient care.

For further information about ASCO and its medical and patient programs, contact
www.asco.org or 703-299-0150

The Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW)

AOSW is a non-profit organization dedicated to the enhancement of psychosocial services
for people with cancer and their family members. The AOSW website links to oncology
resources such as cancer organizations and disease-specific sites for adults and children.
www.aosw.org

The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS)

The Oncology Nursing Society is a professional organization of more than 33,000 registered
nurses and other healthcare providers dedicated to excellence in patient care, education,
research, and administration in oncology nursing.
www.ons.org

Successful Communication with your Doctor and Healthcare Team: A Two-Way Street.

As a cancer patient, you need a doctor who offers and interprets medical information,
who coordinates your care, and with whom you can speak frankly. Today's medical care
is complex and technical. Communicating with a team of specialists including surgeons,
medical oncologists, radiologists and nurses offers you the benefit of their shared views and
is important at all stages of cancer treatment and survival.

Tips/Suggestions for Effective Communication:

  • Bring a family member or friend. This may help with asserting yourself and laterreviewing the new information conveyed.
  • Tape important discussions. Absorb information by listening to the tape at home whenthere is less stress. Be sure to get your doctor's permission before recording him /her.
  • Understand your treatment plan before you leave the office. Ask the doctor to clarify all information. What tests/medicines have been prescribed? How long will you be taking them? What are the risks and benefits of your treatment?
  • Speak clearly and openly with your doctor/healthcare team. Describe and relate all symptoms, observations and concerns. Remember doctors cannot read your mind.
  • Let your doctor know how much information you need to know or can tolerate. While there is much information to understand about all aspects of your condition, only you know if you feel overwhelmed or overloaded with statistics and information. It is important to let the doctor know if the information is too frightening. If you would like more information on your treatment, let the doctor and healthcare team know. Also, let your healthcare team know if you do not understand a particular medical term.
  • Finally, remember that physicians, nurses, and technicians are medical professionals who are committed to serve you. Try to be pleasant, courteous and appreciative. Understand that time is at a premium in today's medical environment. However, if you feel  constantly hurried; you are not treated with respect, and your questions are not being addressed, bring this up with your doctor.  If all else fails, consider looking for another physician.

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Patient Education and Resources

For your convenience, Fighting Chance offers a variety of educational resource materials.
Our library is tailored exclusively for cancer patients and their caregivers. We provide
educational materials about cancer and how to cope with the disease.

Why Go To The Fighting Chance Library?

  • First of all, some people do not like computers and computer printouts. They wantgood old-fashioned brochures and pamphlets. At Fighting Chance we have an ample supply of reading materials that provide current, state-of-the-art information.
  • We have been selective, like all librarians. Our experienced staff has reviewed volumes of materials and continues to offer the most concise, accurate and user- friendly information.

What Will You Learn?

  • In trying to better understand a complicated medical subject like cancer, patients can waste time, feel like they are "spinning their wheels" and get frustrated. We try to help you avoid that.
  • Our goal is to give everyone a packet of relevant material that focuses on their specific cancer challenges. This can "jump-start" the process of learning more about your disease and help you navigate your journey.
  • As a well-educated cancer patient, you will have better communication with your medical team, feel more empowered and be capable of making more informed decisions.

How Did the Library Get Started?

  • In putting together our resource guide - Coping With Cancer on the East End - you can just imagine the scores of websites, brochures and information sources we reviewed.  Whenever a free brochure was available, we would request it. If the brochure was really useful, we would order multiple copies.
  • We have attended several conferences in the past few years - for practitioners from oncologists to nurses specializing in cancer care. We would always return to Sag Harbor with armfuls of pamphlets, and if they seemed useful, we would order more copies and file them away.
  • For the past two years, Fighting Chance has been a member (under the non-profit organization category) of associations for oncologists (like ASCO) and oncological nurses (like ONS). As a result, we receive their publications and review the latest articles. Anything helpful goes into our library.
  • If you call our office in Sag Harbor (631-725-4646), we can assemble a package of material that relates to your specific cancer and guide you to the most useful websites.
  • In battling cancer, you have to start somewhere. Our library is a good place to begin. Medical Information about Cancer and Treatments
  •  American Society of Clinical Oncology, People Living With Cancer www.plwc.org Patient Resource Line: 1-888-651-3038
  • National Cancer Institute, Cancer Information Service www.cancer.gov 1-800-4-CANCER
  • National Cancer Comprehensive Network, Treatment Guidelines for Patients www.nccn.org 1-888-909-6226
  • American Cancer Society 1-800-227-2345 www.cancer.org. Information, referrals, resources, guidance, and publications available 24/7 Spanish and other languages available.

TIP #3… NCCN Treatment Guidelines www.nccn.org “NCCN” stands for National

"NCCN" stands for National Comprehensive Cancer Network. It is a not-for-profit alliance
of 19 of the world's leading hospitals.

Recently, the NCCN and the American Cancer Society have teamed up to publish a simplified
version of NCCN guidelines. Each pamphlet covers a different type of cancer. Available
through the Fighting Chance Library. Also available in Spanish

TIP #4 What is a "Comprehensive Cancer Center"?

The National Cancer Institute or NCI spends billions of dollars each year on cancer
research. Some of the largest grants go to medical facilities that the NCI designates as
Comprehensive Cancer Centers or CCCs. There are only 39 of them in the U.S. and they
are noted for combining high quality clinical care with superb academic research.

There are four CCCs in New York State and two of them are in New York City. One is
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center at 212-639-7900. The second is the Herbert
Irving CCC, part of the College of Physicians & Surgeons of the Columbia Medical Center,
at 212-305-5201.

Due to their deep roots in cancer research,CCC's tend to be excellent places to go for second opinions or to learn about the latest clinical trials.

TIP #5 Finding the Best Doctor for a Second Opinion

Many cancer patients seek second opinions to confirm their diagnosis and treatment plan.
Usually, a second opinion will not provide an "entirely different diagnosis" - for example,
concluding that there is no cancer present. Instead, most second opinions tend to focus on
different treatment options, some of which are "cutting edge" and occasionally the subject
of clinical trials.

From this perspective, the "best" doctor for a second opinion probably will have a scholarly
bent and will be affiliated with a research-oriented hospital such as a CCC.

Of the 39 CCCs in this country, there are some facilities that are also members of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network or NCCN. The NCCN institutions are often portrayed as the "Cadillacs" of cancer care hospitals.

A sensible criterion for picking a second opinion doctor would be to identify a doctor who
is on the medical staff or faculty of a CCC institution which is also a member of the NCCN.

Within the East Coast area, four institutions meet that definition; Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City (212-639-2000); Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston
(617-632-4266); Rosewell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo (716- 845-5772); and the Kimmel
Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore (410-955-8964).

You can find a list of CCCs on the NCI's website (www.cancer.gov) and NCCN's website
(www.nccn.org) lets you pick a doctor by specialty. It will provide background information on his/her field of work plus a phone number.

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Second Opinions

Even after you have selected your doctor or medical team it may be important to get a second opinion. Volumes of new information on the latest cancer developments are produced
every day. Your doctor may not be aware of all of them. Checking in with another expert
gives you the opportunity to validate your doctor's diagnosis and recommended treatment
approach or to identify a new perspective with new options that you may not have known
were available.

Obtaining a second opinion is a common practice, so your doctor should be very comfortable
with the request. Your doctor should provide the referral doctor with all of your medical
records and any other pertinent information your referral doctor might need to evaluate
your situation.

Remember to read your insurance policy and check to confirm that a second opinion will
be covered. In some cases your insurance company may require a second opinion and may
require that you see someone in its network.

Get a second opinion when:

  • You want to be sure you have explored all options.
  • You think there may be another treatment available.
  • Your insurance planc requires it.

TIP #6 …Working with your Local Hospital on Arrangements for a Second Opinion.

Many cancer patients who originally were being treated at a hospital on the East End of
Long Island seek a second opinion from a major Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Cancer patients should realize that it can take several weeks to get a doctor's appointment for a second opinion. And, before the appointment, the doctor needs to receive information
already acquired, which typically includes (1) biopsy pathology slides and reports;
(2) radiology files and reports, such as x-rays and CT scans; and (3) any other relevant
physician reports.

If chemotherapy or radiation therapy already have started, then summaries of treatments
to date are necessary.

The staffs at local hospitals tend to be very cooperative, but the cancer patient or caregiver
still has a lot of material to organize in connection with seeking a second opinion.

Be your own best advocate!

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Hospitals and Health Care Centers

Getting diagnosed with cancer means spending a lot of time at a hospital or healthcare center for testing, treatment and check-ups...

Challenge:..How do I find the best hospital/healthcare center for me?

Solution: Hospitals and healthcare centers are institutions that provide medical and surgical
care for the sick and injured. However, not all hospitals and healthcare centers are the
same. Learning about an institution's philosophy, its strengths, its weaknesses, the number
and kinds of doctors associated with it, can help you select a hospital/healthcare center that
is most consistent with your needs.

Below you will find a listing of hospitals and healthcare centers and their websites.

Southampton Hospital
240 Meeting House Lane
Southampton, NY 11968 ...............................................................631-726-8200
www.southamptonhospital.org

Peconic Bay Medical Center (formerly Central Suffolk Hospital)
1300 Roanoke Avenue
Riverhead, NY 11901 .................................................................... 631-548-6000
www.peconicbaymedicalcenter.org

Eastern Long Island Hospital
201 Manor Place
Greenport, NY 11944 .................................................................... 631-477-1000
www.elih.org

University Hospital at Stony Brook
Nicolls Road
Stony Brook, NY 11794 .................................................................631-689-8333
www.stonybrookmedicalcenter.org

Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center
101 Hospital Road
East Patchogue, NY 11772............................................................. 631-654-7100
www.brookhavenhospital.org

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center of Commack
650 Commack Road
Commack, NY 11725 ..................................................................... 631-623-4000
www.mskcc.org

East Hampton Healthcare Center
200 Pantigo Place
East Hampton, NY 11937 ............................................................. 631-324-8434
www.easthamptonhealthcare.org

Wainscott Walk-In Medical Care
Montauk Hwy & 83 Wainscott Northwest Road
Wainscott, NY 11975 ....................................................................631-537-1892

Hampton Community Health Care
1152 Montauk Highway
Water Mill, NY 11976 ................................................................... 631-726-8033

Hampton Medical Atrium
182 West Montauk Highway
Hampton Bays, NY 11946 ............................................................ 631-723-7013

East End Pain Management Center
Center for the Diagnosis & Treatment of Acute, Chronic & Cancer Pain
365 County Road 39A, Suites 15 & 16
Southampton, NY 11968 ................................................................ 631-702-2300

Tip #7... The Option of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

Memorial Sloan-Kettering is the largest hospital facility in America dedicated exclusively
to cancer, ie, diagnosing cancer, treating and curing cancer and undertaking clinical trials
and other research to find the causes (and sometimes the cure) for many types of cancer. It
is an extraordinary resource.

"Memorial" (as the hospital is commonly known) has several facilities in Manhattan as
well as new "satellite" offices on Long Island and New Jersey.

The fact that the Memorial facilities are accessible expands the medical options for cancer
patients on the East End. Understanding the full range of medical options is an important
"life skill" for cancer patients and their caregivers.

Tip #8 Cancer Surgery on the East End

There are several surgeons who are treating colon, pancreatic, breast, kidney, skin
and prostate cancers at Southampton Hospital.

General Surgeons
Medhat E. Allam, M.D,
Agostino Cervone, M.D.
Leslaw J. Gredysa, M.D.
Steven P. Ouzouonian, M.D.
Richard J. Ricca, M.D.

Urologists
David G. Cruickshank, M.D.
Robert A. Munkelwitz, M.D. F.A.C.S.

Dermatology
Jeanne M. Franck, M.D.
Kenneth A. Mark, M.D.
 

TIP #9 Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center "Satellites" on Long Island.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center or MSK has three outpatient centers on Long
Island that could be an attractive alternative for East End cancer patients who cannot easily
make the trip to MSK's main facility in New York City.

The Satellite in Suffolk County has 12 doctors and offers medical oncology, chemotherapy,
radiation oncology, radiology, surgery consultations, genetic counseling and integrative
medicine, all in a location that's convenient for you.

650 Commack Road, Commack NY 11725......................................................631-623-4000
The Satellite in Nassau County, located in the Mercy Medical Center, is a smaller facility.
It has six doctors (three radiation oncologists and three medical oncologists) who provide
outpatient chemotherapy and radiation services.

1000 North Village Avenue, Rockville Center, NY 11570
Medical Oncology................................................................................516-256-3651

Radiation Oncology.............................................................................516-256-3600

In recent years, a Skin Cancer Center was established in Hauppauge. This facility provides
dermatology services, including Mohs surgery. Used primarily to treat squamous and basal
cell carcinomas, Mohs surgery allows the surgeon to pinpoint and remove cancerous tissue
while leaving healthy skin intact.

800 Veterans Highway, 2nd Floor, Hauppauge, NY 11788...............................631-863-5100

Doctors at all three satellites benefit from many kinds of collaboration with MSK's main
facility. This includes, perhaps most importantly, the ability to connect with the world
class faculty in terms of cancer diagnosis, potential treatments and availability of clinical trials.

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Clinical Trials

There are new discoveries in cancer research every day. Translating scientific discoveries
into improved cancer care for people requires testing through the clinical trials process.
Clinical trials are research studies testing new prevention and treatment methods to determine whether they are effective and safe, and better than the best-known treatment or current standard of care. Deciding whether to participate in a clinical trial can be a very difficult decision.

As treatments are untested, the outcomes are unpredictable. That means that some people
may benefit from participating and some people may expose themselves to risks. (See the
section Understanding the Risks and Rewards below.) This is a highly personal choice
without a right or wrong answer. Learning as much as you can about clinical trials in general
is a good place to start. But remember, the best way to know if a certain trial is right for
you is to discuss it with your doctor. Only your doctor knows your medical history and can
determine if a clinical trial is a viable treatment option.

How Clinical Trials are Set Up

All clinical trials have guidelines about who can participate. These guidelines, called
eligibility criteria, describe characteristics that must be shared by all participants. Eligibility
criteria for clinical trials include a person's age, gender, medical history and current health
status and often require that patients have a particular type and stage of cancer.

Each trial follows a protocol or set of rules. A protocol is sort of an "action plan" for the
clinical trial. The plan will describe the schedule of tests, procedures, medications and doses
as well as the length of the study. Participants will receive a written consent form explaining
the study. People who agree to take part in the study are asked to sign the informed consent
form. However, signing the form does not mean a person must stay in the study. A participant can leave the study at any time, either before the study starts or at any time during the study or the follow-up period.

While in a clinical trial, participants are seen regularly by the research staff to monitor their
health and determine the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. The research team consists of doctors, nurses, social workers and other healthcare professionals.

Phases of Clinical Trials

Phase I: Is the Treatment Safe?

While these treatments have been well-tested in the laboratory and on animals, their impact
on humans at this stage is unknown. Phase I tests to see if a treatment is safe for humans
and to determine the dosage of any medications.

Phase II: Does it Work?

Once a treatment is deemed safe for use by humans, the next step is to see whether the
treatment works against cancer. Researchers look for a response: is the cancer affected by
the treatment? If a certain percentage of patients respond favorably, the treatment is then
considered effective enough to go on to Phase III.

Phase III: Is it Better Than the Current Standard Treatments?

Phase III compares the effectiveness of the new treatment against the standard treatment for a particular cancer. Even if a treatment was found to be effective in Phase II, it is important for doctors to understand how well a particular treatment performs relative to current available treatment options. This phase determines whether a new treatment is more effective (or possibly less toxic) than the current standard of care. Phase II trials usually include a small number of people whereas Phase III trials usually enroll hundreds to thousands of participants in order to gather large amounts of data from patients of various ages, multiple ethnicities and both genders so that the results can be applied to a larger population.

Once a drug has been proven successful in a Phase III trial, the researchers can submit an
application for FDA approval. If the data from clinical trials meet the FDA standards, the treatment will be approved for a specific use.

(Adapted from People Living With Cancer, an ASCO website. For more complete information go to www.plwc.org and link to clinical trials)

Finding an Appropriate Clinical Trial

Websites can be very efficient in finding a clinical trial. However, your doctor is the best
resource for finding a clinical trial that's right for you. If you wish to search the web for
clinical trials, there are several websites that might prove beneficial to you. To find trials
sponsored by drug companies go to www.centerwatch.com. To find government-sponsored
trials go to www.cancertrialshelp.org. Both sites let you search the cancer type and the
location of the participating hospital nearest you. The NCI's website (www.cancer.gov) also
includes a comprehensive list of trials but in technical terminology.

Who Pays for the Costs Associated with a Clinical Trial?

Health insurance and managed care providers often do not cover the patient care costs
associated with a clinical trial. What is covered varies among insurance companies and for
each trial. Oftentimes, the study drug itself will be free of charge but the patient is  responsible for the doctor's visits as well as the follow-up tests that monitor his condition throughout the trial process. It may be helpful to have someone from the research team talk about coverage with a representative from your insurance company.

Understanding the Risks and Rewards

As you consider your treatment options, keep in mind some of the benefits of clinical trial
participation: In general, doctors and nurses who are involved in clinical trial research are
aware of the latest cancer treatment advances. Therefore, your participation can afford you
access to cancer treatments that are not yet widely available. Should those treatments be
particularly successful, you would be among the first to benefit. Second, those involved in
clinical trials receive very close healthcare monitoring to detect and track both treatment
progress and potential side effects. Third, many who participate in clinical trials derive great
satisfaction from contributing to the advancement of cancer research that may benefit future
cancer patients. Finally, participants in clinical trials increase their sense of empowerment
as they take a more active role in their own treatment process.

Along with the rewards there are also risks to consider. With each clinical trial, especially
phase I trials, there are potential side effects and because the treatment is new sometimes
these side effects are unknown and unpredictable. There is the possibility that the new treatment or intervention is not as effective as the current treatment. Also, since everyone
reacts to treatments differently, it may be that while the new intervention is more effective
for others, it may not be as effective for you.

Clinical trials tend to take place in larger, urban city hospitals. For most, this reguires more
frequent trips to the clinic for closer healthcare monitoring. These trips may be challenging
since, transportation to the larger hospital centers may be difficult to arrange plus some may
find it difficult to obtain transportation coverage from their health insurer. Ultimately, the
decision to participate in a clinical trial is highly personal. It involves careful consultation
with your medical team to understand the potential risks and rewards of any particular
clinical trial with respect to your situation.

(Adapted from Coping Magazine, March 2006)

For Clinical Trial Information

National Cancer Institute www.cancer.gov 1-800-4-CANCER

Coalition of National Cancer Cooperative Groups
www.CancerTrialsHelp.org 1-877-520-4457

American Cancer Society: Clinical Trials Matching Service 1-800-ACS-2345

TIP #10 Making Your Decision about Clinical Trials

Before you decide to take part in a clinical trial, you should know as much as possible about
it. Be sure to consult with your medical team about the risks and benefits involved in your
participation. Ask your medical doctor for more details on the trial such as:

  • What is the purpose of the study?
  • How many people will be included in the trial?
  • What does the study involve? What kinds of tests and treatments will I have?
  • How are treatments given and what side effects should I expect?
  • What are the risks and benefits of each protocol?
  • How long will the study last? What type of long-term follow-up care is provided?
  • Will I have any costs? Will any of the treatments be free? What does my insurance cover? Is financial aid available?
Source:  American Cancer Society

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Insurance and Financial Assistance

Having cancer means finding the right healthcare and then facing the challenge of how to
pay for it. If you lack sufficient healthcare coverage, understanding the insurance system and
where you can go for additional support may go a long way in reducing your concerns.

There are three "typical" ways people secure health insurance in the United States. Many
employees receive health insurance benefits through their employers. Others who do not
have health insurance through an employer may purchase health insurance privately. Finally,
there is a system of federal and state-funded health insurance coverage.

Employee-based Health Insurance

Read your policy carefully! Every insurance company is different!
The majority of insurance companies that provide insurance through employers cover
standard cancer treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy and surgery.

In order to best understand what your insurance covers, be sure to review the literature
your employer and insurance company have given you describing your benefits. Compile
any and all questions that you may have about your coverage and review them with the
benefits administrator at your place of employment and a representative from your insurance
company.

Please keep in mind as you compile your information that there are five federal laws dealing
with your healthcare rights:

ERISA (Employment Retirement Income Security Act of 1974)

COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget and Reconciliation Act of 1986)

ADA (Americans with Disability Act of 1990)

FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993)

HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996)

For more information on these programs please visit the following website:
http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/health-plans/index.htm

Federally Funded Insurance Programs

Federally Funded Insurance usually falls under two main categories: Medicare and
Medicaid.

Medicare

  • Available for people who are 65 years or older and/or those who are disabled for morethan 2 years, legally blind or on renal dialysis.
  • Co-pays and/or deductibles are required for treatments and services.
  • Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital expenses, skilled nursing facilities and hospice care.
  • Medicare Part B covers physician and other outpatient services.
  • Medicare Part D started providing insurance for prescription drugs on January 1, 2006.

Everyone on Medicare can get drug coverage regardless of income or health status. To
receive coverage, you must choose one of the many private drug plans Medicare has
approved. Have good drug coverage already? Then you won't need the new benefits but
it is wise to check as this is a new program. There are many questions and answers that
still need to be worked out. For more help, please call Medicare's telephone hotline at
1-800-633-4227 or visit www.medicarerights.org.

Medicaid

Medicaid provides medical care for low income citizens of all ages and is managed at
the state level. Basic benefits are required by the federal government, but states can add
additional benefits.

Hospital care, physician visits, prescriptions and home healthcare services are provided to
persons who will be disabled for more than a year.

For more information Contact: http://cms.hhs.gov/ 1-800-541-2831

State Funded Insurance Programs

EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage): EPIC is a New York State sponsored
prescription plan for senior citizens who need help paying for their prescriptions. Must
be age 65 or older. The cost-sharing program applies to low-to-moderate income persons.

Enrollees may be elligible for reimbursement of doctor's fees and portions of co-payments
under a program funded by Suffolk County (631-853-8200).

For more information on eligibility requirements please visit:
http://www.health.state.ny.us/health_care/epic/ 1-800-332-3742

Family Health Plus: Family Health Plus is a public health insurance program for adults
between the ages of 19 and 64 who do not have health insurance - either on their own or
through their employers - but have income or resources too high to qualify for Medicaid.

Family Health Plus is available to single adults, couples without children, and parents with
limited income who are residents of New York State and are United States citizens or fall
under one of many immigration categories. For more information please visit:
http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/fhplus/what_is_fhp.htm 1-877-934-7587

Child Health Plus: Child Health Plus is a New York State health insurance plan.  For more
information please visit: http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/chplus/what_is_chp.htm
1-800-698-4KIDS

Breast and/or Cervical Cancer Treatment Program: The Healthcare Workforce Recruitment
and Retention Act expanded Medicaid eligibility to certain individuals diagnosed with breast
and/or cervical cancer or pre-cancerous conditions through the Healthy Women Partnership
program. Individuals are now eligible for Medicaid benefits for the duration of their cancer
treatment. For more information please visit: http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/bcctp/
bcctp.htm.

What to do when your coverage is not enough:

If you are finding that your insurance coverage is insufficient, and that your insurance
company is unwilling to reimburse claims, contact the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF).
The PAF has case managers and attorneys who advocate on behalf of patients who are
experiencing a range of insurance issues. Contact: www.patientadvocate.org
1-800-532-5274

For more information on availability and evaluation of New York State health insurance
plans visit: www.ins.state.ny.us

If you are having trouble paying for your medications, try contacting the manufacturer of
the drug. Often, drug companies have financial assistance programs. If you need assistance
finding the drug manufacturer or patient assistance programs, please visit www.needymeds.
com. Needymeds is an information source similar to the Yellow Pages. Needymeds does not
supply medications or financial assistance but will help you find programs that do.

You may also want to contact the National Council on Aging for information on drug
company sponsored discount programs. The NCOA helps older people remain healthy and
independent, find jobs, increase access to benefits programs, and discover meaningful ways
to continue contributing to society.
www.ncoa.org or www.benefitscheckup.org

The American Cancer Society offers a Health Insurance Assistance Team program. Trained
personnel provide information, guidance and support regarding health insurance issues for
people under the age of 65. .............................................................. 1-800-227-2345

If you are in a position to select a better health insurance plan to meet your needs, be sure to refer to The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) guidelines for Minimum
Standards for Cancer Benefits in Insurance Policies to ensure that your coverage will be sufficient.

www.accc-cancer.org/publications/patientbrochur.asp .................................301-984-9496

If you would like to purchase your own insurance you may consider joining an association
such as the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) to qualify for less expensive
group coverage. The process of becoming a "self-employed" worker is fairly simple. Consult
the NASE website or call them for more details.

www.nase.org ........................................................................ 1-800-232-6273

Entitlements/Assistance (for SSI, SSD, Medicare and Medicaid)

Social Security Administration .............................................................1-800-772-1213

American Association for Retired People .............................................1-800-424-3410

Oley Foundation, Inc. ..........................................................................1-800-776-6539

Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program

The HICAP program assists seniors with health insurance paperwork. Trained volunteers
provide the elderly with information and assistance regarding claims and appeals decisions for Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental and long-term care insurance. Call a volunteer counselor
at...............................................................................................631-853-8200

The Plan Project, Nassua/Suffolk Law Services

Provides free legal assistance to cancer patients regarding powers of attorney, healthcare
proxies, health insurance coverage, Medicaid denials and numerous other legal issues that may arise.  Contact Denise Snow at ..............................................516-292-8100

Tip #11 Who Pays for the Next Test or Treatment?

Once someone is diagnosed with cancer, it is very important to try to understand the
types of future tests and treatments that are covered by insurance - meaning the insurer
pays the costs.

The insurer could be an HMO or the government itself (in the case if Medicaid).
Occasionally, there may be a test or treatment that is "cutting edge" and promising
- but is very expensive and beyond the scope of the cancer patient's insurance policy.

In essence, the test or treatment becomes "unaffordable." At times like that, our healthcare
system can seem imperfect.

On the other hand, the vast majority of Americans are covered by some type of health-
care insurance. And most insurance policies certainly pay for basic cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation.

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Complementary and Alternative Medicine

A cancer diagnosis may send some people seeking answers in the direction of non-standard
treatment.

Standard treatments are those that have been scientifically tested, found to be safe and
effective and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Non-standard approaches
to treatment, referred to as complementary and alternative medicine, are those treatments
that have not undergone the same type of rigorous safety and efficacy testing, and have not
been evaluated in structured unbiased clinical trials. Usually, healthcare practitioners refer
to any form of therapy used in combination with other alternative treatments or standard
medicine as complementary. Those therapies that are used alone, in place of the recommended standard treatments, are considered alternative.

Research has shown that some complementary therapies may help ease side effects of
traditional treatments and promote healing in the mind and body. Other complementary
treatments waste money and are potentially harmful. Learning to evaluate the relevance
of a complementary treatment approach, in partnership with your doctor, is an important
element of your cancer care.

Challenge: Where can I find additional sources of healing support in my community?

Solution: There are a number of complementary health practitioners on the East End who
represent a wide range of philosophies, practices and services. Below you will find a list of
basic definitions for some complementary medicine practices as well as a list of practioners.
Remember, as with any health practioner, be selective!

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapeutic technique wherein the body is pierced with
fine needles to promote healing and provide pain relief.

Massage Therapy is a "hands-on" form of medical treatment, based on an in-depth
understanding of musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems of the body.
The goal of massage therapy is to increase mobility and reduce swelling, pain and scar
tissue formation.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Removal of the lymph nodes is a common intervention to
diagnose and prevent the spread of cancer. Often this surgery can cause lymphedema or
swelling due to congestion in the lymphatic pathways. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
is a massage therapy technique that aims to activate and to regularize the circulation
of the lymphatic system and reduce the pain and swelling associated with some cancer
treatments.

Reiki is a traditional Japanese healing technique that focuses on tapping into "life force
energy." It aims to improve emotional, spiritual and physical well-being through stress
reduction and relaxation.

Transformational Breath Work is a breathing technique used for therapeutic purposes in
order to release blocked energy from the physical, mental and spiritual self and promote healing on all levels.

Acupuncture

Mary Beth Armstrong .................................................................. 631-725-8131

Denise Maletta .......................................................................... 631-547-5433

Counseling

Being diagnosed with a physical illness such as cancer comes with many emotional
challenges. For some, finding a safe place to talk about these emotional issues can be
beneficial and aid adjustment.

Edyle O'Brien, LCSW ................................................................... 631-723-0514

Margaret Fox, LCSW ................................................................... .631-298-8034
955 Albo Drive, Laurel, NY 11948

Susan Griffin, LCSW .................................................................... 631-725-2978
P.O. Box 1551, Sag Harbor, NY 11963

Robert Kuisis, Ph.D. .................................................................... 631-907-0539

Karen Melnick, Family Therapy, ASCW, LCSW, BCD, CISM,
East Hampton, NY 11937 ............................................................. 631-324-0714

Fran Donovan, LCSW
P.O. Box 1574, East Hampton, NY 11937 ....................................... 631-329-1314

Riverhead Mental Health Center
300 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901 .................................................................. 631-852-1440

Sunrise Counseling Center (Accepts most insurance and Medicare)
Terry DeVito-Associate Director
Bay Shore, NY 11706 .................................................................. 631-666-1615
www.sunrisecounselingcenter.com

Hamptons Counseling Center
Jean Binnie, DAPA, M.S., M.A........................................................ 631-728-6744
Sliding pay scale (Initial consultation is free)

Massage Therapy

Cindy Grant BS, LMT .................................................................. 631-726-8574
Southampton Hospital Massage Therapy Department
Oncological Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Kathleen Tilley .......................................................................... 631-653-3355
Licensed Massage Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist

Massage and Acupuncture

Integrative Medicine at Memorial Sloan-Kettering at Hauppague
800 Veterans Memorial Highway
Hauppague, NY 11788 ............................................................... 631-863-5150

Yoga - set of exercises intended to improve breathing, stretch muscles and relax the mind.

Ananda Yoga Center
Group and private classes that are
appropriate and specifically for cancer patients.............................. 631-259-8805

20 Hampton Road
Southampton, NY 11968

Mandala Yoga and Dance Center
Jolie Parcher, Director ................................................................ 631-267-6144
Amagansett, NY 11930 www.mandalayoga.com

Zebra Yoga
Group and private yoga lessons, massage therapy and reflexology.
Bridgehampton Commons (Across from T.J. Maxx) ................................ 631-537-YOGA
www.zebrayoga.com

Practitioners Providing Multiple Services

Pamela Reid, Helps people reconnect with themselves through non-invasive therapy.
Available for office visits and house calls.
Sag Harbor, NY 11963 ...................................................................... 631-725-0199
www.wholisticmassage.com

Sharmila J. Cohen-Gold, LMT, Gentle Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Reflexology,
Aromatherapy and Therapeutic Massage ......................................... ....631-725-4995

Charyl Ozkaya, Transformational Breath ......................................... ....631-723-0029

Reiki, Massage Therapy ............................................................... ....516-532-7633

Lauren Matzen, Acupuncture/ Reiki. ............................................... ....631-287-1465
Works with patients on improving the immune system, coping with stress, increasing
energy, and offers advice on supplements

Alison M.Caiola, C.HT., Provides imagery and visualization to help with stress
management, pain management, smoking cessation, bereavement issues
and overall well-being/adjustment ................................................... 631-779-3333
www.hypnosishealthcds.com

Dr. Lisa Cowely, Wholistic chiropractic care and nutritional counseling
44600 County Road 48
Southold, NY 11971.....................................................................631-765-1216

Pat Jeski, Certified Healing Touch Pracitioner, Crainosacral Therapy,
depression and stress reduction, lessens the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation,
pre-and post-surgery prep, wound-healing .............................................. .....631-727-4156

Paula Montagna, Dietician, M.S., R.D., C.D.N. Provides consults and nutrition
counseling for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers ............................ 631-833-6404

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Pharmacies

Cancer drugs will be administered in the hospital or at the doctor's office, but will also be
prescribed for you by your doctor through a pharmacy.

Challenge:..How do I select a pharmacy that is convenient, that will help reduce my confusion
and keep my costs to a minimum?

Solution:.. It is important that you or your family members feel comfortable with the
pharmacy and service you receive. Here are some helpful questions to think about as you
select a pharmacy:

  • Is this pharmacy in a convenient location for me or my loved ones?
  • Can I have my doctor call in prescriptions to save time?
  • Is the pharmacist available to answer my questions?
  • Does this pharmacy accept my insurance?
  • Does this pharmacy deliver?

Corwith Pharmacy
(Will deliver within Southampton village)
Accepts all major insurance, Medicare and Medicaid; Spanish-speaking personnel
56 Hampton Road
Southampton, NY 11968 .............................................................. 631-283-0001

Southrifty Drug
54 Jagger Lane
Southampton, NY 11968 ............................................................... 631-283-1506

Rite Aid
200 Bridgehampton Commons
Bridgehampton, NY 11932 ........................................................... 631-537-0235
(Spanish-speaking personnel)

82 Nugent Street
Southampton, NY 11968 ............................................................... 631-283-2604

Sag Harbor Pharmacy
120 Main Street
Sag Harbor, NY 11963 .................................................................. 631-725-0047

CVS Pharmacy
Accepts all major insurance, spanish-speaking personnel-both locations
38 Pantigo Road
East Hampton, NY 11937 ............................................................. 631-324-8587

111 Main Street
Southampton, NY 11968 ............................................................... 631-283-4250

1140 Old County Road
Riverhead, NY 11901 ..................................................................... 631-727-9000

9870 Main Road
Mattituck, NY 11952...................................................................... 631-298-8280

White's Pharmacy
81 Main Street
East Hampton, NY 11937 ............................................................. 631-324-0082

Tip #12 Natural Provisions and Herbal Medicine

Another distinctive resource on the East End is the abundance of stores that sell "natural"
foods and herbal remedies. A good example is "Provisions" located on Main Street in Sag
Harbor.

Most of the people who work in these stores have knowledge of what herbs can (and cannot)
do. Tapping into this knowledge is a useful life skill for cancer patients - and can reveal a
new range of medicinal options.

The effectiveness of herbs in fighting cancer still has many skeptics, but some respectable
authorities would say that carefully selected herbs can relieve some of the symptoms that
come with cancer and that can enhance a patient's quality of life.

It is most important to check out the suitability of herbs as well as issues regarding drug
interactions. Please call The Integrative Medicine Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering
Cancer Center at 212-639-4700 or visit the website www.mskcc.org/aboutherbs.

White's Pharmacy of Montauk
The Plaza
Montauk, NY 11954 ....................................................................... 631-668-2994

Park Place Chemists
East Hampton Healthcare Center
200 Pantigo Place, Suite K
East Hampton, NY 11937 ............................................................. 631-324-6660

Center Island Pharmacy
254 West Montauk Highway
Hampton Bays, NY 11946 ............................................................. 631-728-3300

Eckerd Drugs
22 East Montauk Highway
Hampton Bays, NY 11946 ............................................................. 631-728-2566

Barth's Pharmacy Inc,
58 Sunset Avenue
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 ................................................... 631-288-4345

Rite Aid Pharmacy
161 Main Street
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 .................................................... 631-288-5845

Southold Pharmacy
1177 Main Road
Southold, NY 11971 ....................................................................... 631-765-3434

Colonial Drugs & Surgicals
100 Front Street
Greenport, NY 11944 ..................................................................... 631-477-1111

Shelter Island Heights Pharmacy
Grand Avenue
Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965.................................................. 631-749-0445

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Special Equipment

Sometimes caring for yourself or others with cancer requires special equipment.

Challenge: Where do I go to get the equipment I need to care for myself or my loved
one?

Solution: There are a number of retailers that specialize in surgical appliances and supplies
to assist you in caring for yourself or your loved one during treatment. You may find that
having a hospital bed, a walker or a wheelchair in the home may provide much needed
convenience and support. Many of these stores give you the option to rent or buy equipment
and many of these costs are covered by insurance. Below you will find a list of suppliers
in your area.

Hampton Home Care
16 Hampton Road
Southampton, NY 11968 ............................................................... 631-283-8211

Lewin Services and Medical Supplies
(Adjacent to Wal-Mart on Route 58)
165 Oliver Street
Riverhead, NY 11901 ..................................................................... 631-727-7006/76

All-Care Medical Products Corps
Certified Prosthetic; Orthotist & Fitters on staff
Free pick-up and delivery
79 Deer Park Ave. .......................................................................... 631-475-3700
Babylon, NY 11702........................................................................ 631-587-4170

Lehneis Orthotics & Prosthetics
518 E. Main St.
Riverhead, NY 11901 ..................................................................... 631-369-3115

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Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitative medicine that is used for a wide range of ailments
from recovery from an auto accident to increasing strength and mobility after a sports injury.
Those coping with cancer may benefit from physical therapy after surgery and treatment.

Physical therapy can often strengthen muscles for patients confined to bed for long periods
of time. Below you will find a listing of physical therapists in your area.

Peconic Bay Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Center
(Spanish-speaking personnel)
Medicare, Medicaid and all major insurance accepted
34 Commerce Drive, Suite 3
Riverhead, NY 11901 ..................................................................... 631-727-9654

Southampton Hospital Rehabilitation Services
Eileen M. Grubb, PT
LANA Certified Lymphedema Therapist
240 Meetinghouse Lane
Southampton, NY 11968 ................................................................ 631-726-8526

Manual Sports Physical Therapy
Accepts all major insurance
167 Main Street
Southampton, NY 11968 ................................................................ 631-283-4190

60 Bay Street
Sag Harbor, NY 11963 ................................................................... 631-725-4450

Sports Rehabilitation Network
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services
Affiliated with Eastern Long Island and Southampton Hospitals
Accepts all major insurance, Medicaid and Medicare
240 Meeting House Lane
Southampton, NY 11968 ................................................................ 631-726-8520

Southampton Hospital Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Provides Lymphedema evaluations, Medical Massage Therapy
470 Pantigo Road
East Hampton, NY 11937 .............................................................. 631-329-6820
Spanish-speaking personnel
Provides Lymphedema evaluations, Medical Massage Therapy

74 Old Riverhead Road
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 .................................................... 631-288-7767
Provides Medical Massage Therapy

St. Charles Hospital & Rehabilitation Center
806 East Main Street
Riverhead, NY 11901 .................................................................... 631-369-4440

Hampton Physical Therapy
Hampton Atrium Condominium, Suite E4
188 Montauk Hwy.
Hampton Bays, NY 11946 ............................................................. 631-728-6377

Personalized Hands On Care
Most insurance plans accepted
128 Sag Harbor Turnpike
Bridgehampton, NY 11932 ............................................................ 631-537-7850

Saundra J. Perry Physical Therapy
57190 Main Road
Southold, NY 11971 ....................................................................... 631-765-3620

Eastern Long Island Hospital Physical Therapy & Fitness
46520 North Road
Southold, NY 11971 ....................................................................... 631-765-9389

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Transportation

Coping with cancer means coping with numerous, ongoing doctor appointments. Being able
to get around is vital. Transportation services are available through private car services or
taxis, volunteer transportation services (sometimes run by local religious groups or agencies)
or low-cost van services run by community agencies.

Challenge:.. How can I find the transportation I need to get to and from all of my doctor's
appointments?

Solution:.. The first step in planning your transportation needs is assessing your resources.
Your transportation options will typically fall into one of three categories: self/community,
public and private. Tailoring a transportation plan to your needs may involve drawing on a
combination of all three. Below you will find a description of these categories and a listing
of specific transportation resources in your area.

Self/Community Transportation:

Road to Recovery/Transportation ................................................1-800-227-2345
American Cancer Society offers volunteers to drive ambulatory patients to chemo therapy
and radiation. ACS also provides taxi assistance and financial assistance by a Transportation
Coordinator. Support available in Spanish and other languages.

If you have access to a car, you may choose to drive yourself to and from appointments.
You may also create a network of volunteer drivers among your family and friends to pitch
in for driving duty.

Public Transportation:

Public Transportation on the East End Bus System or through the Senior Citizen Shuttle
Services is an inexpensive option for getting around.

Suffolk County Transit Service .....................................................631-852-5200
For specific bus schedule information, call for assistance, refer to bus schedules on
www.sct-bus.org or pick up a bus schedule at your village or town hall.

Suffolk County Accessible Transportation
Provides curb-to-curb service to those with permanent or temporary disabilities. Must
register in advance and must be deemed elligible by calling ..........631-738-1150

Southampton Town Senior Citizen
Shuttle Program ..............................................................................631-728-1110

East Hampton Town Dept.of Human Services
Senior Shuttle ..................................................................................631-324-4443

Private Transportation:
Door-to-door service is available from a number of private taxi companies
on the East End.

Hampton Coach Taxi
(Medicaid accepted-prior approval required)
Southampton ...................................................................................631-283-0242
Riverhead/Aquebogue .....................................................................631-727-6088
East Hampton/Bridgehampton ........................................................631-324-7777
Greenport/Mattituck ........................................................................631-477-2227
Westhampton ...................................................................................631-288-4044
Hampton Bays .................................................................................631-728-0050

Hampton Jitney
Discounts available for cancer patients by calling CancerCare, Inc.
(Schedule available on-line)
www.hamptonjitney.com..................................................................631-283-4600
CancerCare, Roberta Johnson ...........................................516-364-8130, ext. 100

McRides, Junior's Taxi
(Medicaid accepted with prior approval)
Discounted rates available-contact Fighting Chance for more information
Riverhead ........................................................................................631-727-0707
Southampton ...................................................................................631-283-1900
Hampton Bays .................................................................................631-728-5100
Westhampton Beach ........................................................................631-288-3252
Shirley/Mastic/Moriches .................................................................631-395-1111

Ace Taxi (One-day notice for appointment)
Discounts available-Contact Fighting Chance for more information
Service from Amagansett
to Westhampton to Riverhead.......................................................516-383-2343

Long Distance Travel for Treatment
Corporate Angel Network.Inc................................................www.corpangelnetwork.org
Finds free airfare transportation (on corporate planes) for ambulatory cancer patients
who need medical treatment.

Westchester County Airport, 1 Loop Road,
White Plains, NY 10604 .............................................................................914-328-1313

Reimbursement

Helps with payments for transportation:
CancerCare of Long Island ......................................................................516-364-8130
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society ......................................................631-752-8500
South Fork Breast Health Coalition ............................................................631-726-8606
The American Cancer Society...................................................................1-800-227-2345

Tip #13 Getting to your Doctor Appointments on Time

Organizing a transportation plan is one of the most useful life skills that a cancer patient
can develop. It's similar to setting up a carpool, really. You puzzle out who can drive when,
get family and friends for your team of drivers and then put together a schedule on your
bulletin board.

If you are diagnosed with cancer you may be surprised at the growing number of doctor
appointments you have! You are seeing different types of doctors (for starters, your GP and
oncologist) and may be undergoing several different tests and therapies.

Getting to all of these appointments (on time) is another "life skill" and an important way
for cancer patients to help themselves, and make their doctors' jobs easier.

Tip #14 The "Jitney"

This is a transportation "lifeline" which links the villages of the East End to New York City
and runs as often as 10 times per day. Fares can change and some are adjusted for senior
citizens, etc. Although the phone number has already been noted it will be repeated here...
631-283-4600 or 1-800-0400.

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Spiritual Support and Coping Tips

Many people struggling with cancer find that drawing on spiritual support can bring much
strength and solace.

Challenge: Where can I go to find the right spiritual support for me?

Solution: Finding spiritual sustenance is a highly personal process and decision. Many
faiths and houses of worship are represented on the East End. Finding a religious or
spiritual community that meets your needs may involve attending services or meeting
with the religious leader or congregants of a particular establishment. Below you will find
a representative list of religious organizations on the East End.

CorMaria Retreat House, Sag Harbor, NY ........................................... 631-725-4206

First Presbyterian Church of Sag Harbor, Sag Harbor, NY ...................... 631-725-0894

Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons, Southampton, NY ................. 631-283-6169

Hampton Bays United Methodist Church, Hampton Bays, NY ................. 631-728-1660

The Hamptons Alliance Church, Water Mill, NY ......................................... 631-726-4889

Hispanic Apostolate, Southampton, NY ..................................................... 631-283-4379

Incarnation Lutheran Church ELCA-The Welcome Place
Bridgehampton, NY .............................................................................. 631-537- 1187

Immaculate Conception Church, Westhampton Beach, NY ......................... 631-288-4188

Jewish Center of the Hamptons, East Hampton, NY ............................... 631-324-9858

Montauk Community Church, Montauk, NY ................................................ 631-668-2022

Most Holy Trinity Church, East Hampton, NY ........................................ .631-324-0134

Presbyterian Church of Bridgehampton, Bridgehampton, NY .................. 631-537-0863

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church
Bridgehampton, NY ........................................................................ .631-537-0156

St. Ann's Episcopal Church, Bridgehampton, NY ......................................... 631-537-1527

St. John's Episcopal Church, Southampton, NY .......................................... 631-283-0549

St. Luke's Episcopal Church, East Hampton, NY ......................................... 631-329-0990

St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Hampton Bays, NY......................................... 631-728-0776

St. Mary's of Shelter Island, NY ...................................................... 631-749-0770

Our Lady of the Isle Church, Shelter Island, NY ................................. 631-749-0001

St. Agnes Church, Greenport, NY ....................................................... 631-477-0048

St. Therese of Lisieux, Montauk, NY ............................................ 631-668-2200

United Methodist Church of East Hampton/Bridgehampton
East Hampton, NY ..................................................................... 631-324-4258

United Methodist Church of Southampton, Southampton, NY ................. 631-283-0951

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the South Fork
Bridgehampton, NY ..................................................................... 631-537-0132

Westhampton Beach Presbyterian, Westhampton Beach, NY ...................... 631-288-2576

Tip #15 People-to-People Spiritual Support

The churches and houses of worship on the East End are another resource for cancer patients
and their caregivers. There are churches for many different faiths, and most congregations
are growing and energetic. Their clergy also have a long history of cooperating with one
another, through inter-denominational groups like Clericus.

Within these houses of worship, the cancer patient will find people of faith, but also people
who really care about other people, including total strangers.

In other words, it is a place of empathy and people-to-people relationships which are mutually supportive. Being part of those relationships can be a valuable "life skill" for cancer
patients.

COPING TIPS

Today, the advances in cancer diagnosis, treatments and research have increased the chances
for cure. With this good news comes the reality of increased complexities and responsibilities
that patients and caregivers face along the journey from diagnosis, to treatment and beyond.

It is our goal to provide you with the practical information, guidance and strategies to ease
your adjustment and help you feel more empowered.

Fighting Chance provides telephone outreach, education, navigation and support, as
well as individual, family and group counseling. To utilize these services please call 631-725-4646.

CANCER AND DEPRESSION

Cancer is a series of crisis from diagnosis, through treatment and rehabilitation. It brings
with it a great need to attend to our physical health while often experiencing overwhelming
emotions that can leave us feeling as though our world has been turned upside down. Cancer
takes away the illusion that we have control over our lives. Often the greater our need for
control, the greater our sense of loss during cancer, leaving us more vulnerable to feelings
of depression.