2018 Survivor Profile - Sherry Sullivan

Eighteen years ago after Sherry Sullivan was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer at age 45 and underwent lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation, the North Bellmore resident felt comforted by the outpouring of love and emotional support from her husband, family and friends. But she admits, the expressions of love and social support were “not enough.”

“I was feeling sorry for myself and I was afraid of a recurrence of the cancer,” Sherry said. “I had friends who died of breast cancer, and I felt I was going down a rabbit hole.”

It wasn’t until she attended the Adelphi New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program’s group for individuals who are newly diagnosed with the disease that she found solace among others who were facing similar experiences with breast cancer. Connecting to the support group instilled hope, provided coping skills and camaraderie and fellowship.

“Only a person who has walked in your shoes can relate to your situation and understand your fears,” said Sherry, a retired sales representative who admits she was not the ‘support group-type.’ “The support group included women from all walks of life. We were all different, but had that common bond. That group saved my sanity. It was the only thing I looked forward to every week.”

Today, she remains cancer-free and last year signed on as a volunteer with Adelphi’s Breast Cancer Hotline, helping callers find community resources, and providing comfort, encouragement and support. “I’m giving back,” says Sherry, now 63, and a grandmother of four.