Senator Farley Announces Cynthia Hamilton Of Bellevue Woman's Hospital Named Breast Cancer Research And Education Awardee

State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R,C - Schenectady) said he was honored to join Governor George E. Pataki in announcing that Cynthia Hamilton, coordinator of the Bellevue Woman's Hospital's Mobile Mammography program, will receive the Health Professional Award, one of the 2005 Innovation in Breast Cancer Research and Education Awards.

"I am proud of Ms. Hamilton and the hard work that she does," Senator Farley said. "The mobile mammography initiative was created in the 1990s so that more women, especially those in rural areas, can receive the critical screenings they need. In utilizing this vehicle, Bellevue has been able to expand the availability of critical women's health care services by bringing these services directly to many people. The van travels through 12 counties to provide much-needed services to women."

Under Ms. Hamilton's direction, the mobile program provides over 1,700 mammography screenings a year.

Senator Farley has been interested in the success of this program since early 2000 when fiscal constraints forced the van off the road. At that time, it was serving 75 to 100 women a month who otherwise might not have had access to this vital service. He was able to secure two $50,000 Senate grants to help put the van back in service with new equipment.

"From scheduling patients to staffing, Ms. Hamilton ensures the mobile program is running smoothly and effectively," Senator Farley said. "She truly deserves this award."

The 2005 Innovation in Breast Cancer Research and Education Awards are selected by the New York State Breast Cancer Detection and Education Program Advisory Council. Members of this council are appointed by the Governor and the State Legislature. Other award honorees are: Capital Region resident and community advocate Nola Royce; and Sharsheret, a New York City-based non-profit organization.