Notkin Family Breast Cancer Recovery Program

Navigating breast cancer care is overwhelming

When you’re referred for a biopsy after a suspicious breast mass is detected it can bring a wave of uncertainty — for you and for the people who care about you. Questions come quickly, and it can be hard to know what comes next.

This life-changing program has helped more than 30,000 women since its founding in 2004.

Inspired by their own experience caring for loved ones with breast cancer, the Notkin family made a generous commitment to help others navigate this moment with greater clarity and support. Watch an interview with the Notkins.

A team of specialists provides personalized support

The program begins with a cancer patient navigator, who helps patients prepare for their biopsy and, with the referring physician’s permission, shares and explains the results.

If results are benign, the patient navigator discusses appropriate follow-up care. If cancer is diagnosed, they take the time to review the diagnosis, help coordinate next steps and offer guidance on questions to ask the medical oncology team.

A multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive support to help women and their families throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery:

• Patient navigators provide ongoing guidance for hundreds of newly diagnosed patients each year, helping coordinate appointments, explain medical terms and support decision-making, including referrals for genetic testing.
• Social workers offer personalized support, from helping patients talk with their families to navigating insurance questions.
• Dietitians create nutrition plans to support strength and well-being during treatment.
• Health psychology fellows help patients and their families meet the emotional challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment with individual consultations and support groups.

Thanks to philanthropic support, the Notkin Program is available at no cost — giving patients access to education, guidance and compassionate support from diagnosis through survivorship.

Your gift at any level can have a profound impact

For more information on making a gift to the Notkin Program, please contact:  
Anna Schroeder, Director, Women’s & Children’s Health, CPMC Foundation 
415-600-2964, anna.schroeder@sutterhealth.org or Hollie.Seeley@sutterhealth.org .