For many breast cancer patients, the challenges extend far beyond medical treatment. Recognizing these challenges, the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center’s Nebraska Breast Health Navigation Program is actively working to eliminate barriers for breast cancer patients.
Since its inception in June 2023, the program, led by Juan Santamaria, MD, co-founder and director, has assisted more than 80 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with navigation services, offering them support.
Shinobu Watanabe-Galloway, PhD, associate director of the cancer center’s community outreach and engagement office, said: “It is such an important initiative because one of the goals of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center is to reduce overall cancer burden and eliminate cancer disparities.”
This initiative would not have been possible without the joint efforts and contributions of Robin Lally, PhD, co-founder of the program, along with her PhD student, Kia Scott-Sellers, and her PhD assistant, Becky Johnson-Beller, PhD, who are conducting essential research to support the program.
“Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in collecting data on the feasibility, appropriateness of navigation and uptake, ensuring that the program demonstrates its impact and reach in supporting those who need it most,” Dr. Watanabe-Galloway said.
The cornerstone of the Nebraska Breast Health Navigation Program is its peer navigators, community volunteers who are breast cancer survivors. The navigators often share many cultural, social, racial or ethnic similarities with the patients they support.
Their work reflects the program’s mission: ensuring no breast cancer patient is left without support. They provide much-needed assistance to patients, including accompanying them to doctor visits, connecting them to resources for transportation and childcare, addressing financial challenges and securing essentials like groceries and shelter.
One of the program’s navigators, Phyllis Mitchell-Butler, exemplifies its mission. A breast cancer survivor of more than 15 years, Mitchell-Butler said, “I know the fear and uncertainty a diagnosis brings. Through the Nebraska Breast Health Navigation Program, I offer hope and guidance to others facing similar battles.”
Said Dr. Santamaria, “We believe this program is critical in helping us eliminate barriers among minority women in our community. By using peers within the community, we hope to break down these barriers and improve outcomes. The Nebraska Breast Health Navigation Program is a lifeline for breast cancer patients, offering support during one of the most challenging times in their lives. Its impact is profound, but there’s always more work to be done.”
To learn more about the Nebraska Breast Health Navigation Program or to receive services, visit the program’s website or email the navigator administrator coordinators, Phyllis Mitchell-Butler and Julia Weathers.
To contribute to the program, visit the University of Nebraska Foundation donation page.