Concerned About Your Risk of Cancer? The HOPE Program Can Help

Q. What is the HOPE Program?
A. The Hereditary Oncology Prevention and Evaluation Program at The LIFE Center at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey Hamilton (CINJ-H) provides comprehensive genetic counseling and cancer risk assessment for individuals with a personal and/or family history of cancer.

Q. How do I know if this program is for me?
A. This program is especially helpful for families with the following:

• Those diagnosed with cancer at a younger age than the average population, especially under the age of 50
• Several family members with the same type of cancer or related cancers (such as breast and ovarian cancer or colon and endometrial cancer)
• At least two generations affected with cancer and/or pre-cancerous lesions
• Several family members with less common types of cancer (such as pancreatic or ovarian cancer) or
• Anyone who has had several types of cancer.

Q. During my initial appointment with the HOPE Program what can I expect?
A. Here's what you can expect:

• You will be asked to complete a personal and family history chart prior to your visit
• The certified genetic counselor will discuss how your personal medical history will impact your risk for cancer (cancer risk assessment)
• You will learn about cancer genetics and various medical management options
• There will be a review of the benefits and limitations of genetic testing, if appropriate
• You will learn about specific federal and state laws that protect individuals from genetic discrimination.

Q. What happens if I decide to get my blood drawn for genetic testing?
A. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the initial genetic counseling appointment and may cover the cost of genetic testing if it is medically indicated. Prior to the actual lab draw, your insurance coverage will be checked. If you agree to be tested, follow-up visits would be necessary to receive your results. All services are provided at CINJ-H.

Q. Who do I contact to find out more information and/or make an appointment?
A. Call Trish Tatrai, RN, MS, OCN, Certified Breast Health Navigator/Cancer Genetics Coordinator at (609) 584-2836.

CINJ-H SUPPORT GROUPS AND SERVICES

Annual Breast Cancer Survivors' Fashion Show
Every spring, RWJ Hamilton celebrates breast cancer survivors with an event that includes a lunch, silent auction and fashion show where all the models are breast cancer survivors. For information, call 609.631.6960.

Annual Cancer Survivors' Weekend
This uplifting and inspiring event occurs on the first weekend of June. It begins with the annual candlelit remembrance service in honor of loved ones who have passed away from cancer. The cancer survivors' day, held on either Saturday or Sunday, celebrates life and includes a guest speaker, survivor testimonials and an array of fun activities for the family.

Breast Cancer Survivor's Group
Meetings takes place on the first, second Tuesday and third Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the CINJ-H conference room. Together you'll share your experiences, solutions, triumphs and concerns. For information on the first and third Tuesday meeting, call Trish Tatrai at 609.584.2836. For information on the second Tuesday meeting, call Lois Glasser of CancerCare at 800.813.4673, ext. 107.

Breast Consultation Program
This program is available to patients who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer or who are seeking a second opinion. It provides a unique approach to treatment and gives every patient an opportunity to discuss her total care privately with healthcare providers. For information or to schedule an appointment, call 609.584.2836.

CINJ-H Young Women's Survivors Group
Women age 45 and under living with breast cancer and/or gynecological cancers share information, advice and friendship. The meetings take place the third Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at CINJ-H. For more information, call Trish Tatrai at 609.584.2836.

Comfort in Clothing Program
Shopping for clothing can be a chore for those dealing with the changes brought about by cancer. This program offers free, comfortable clothing to patients under our care. For more information, call 609.631.6960.

Kids Share — A Workshop for Children
By participating in activities, exercises and discussion, children are given an opportunity to learn more about cancer and how to cope with the challenges it can bring to a family. A separate group for parents is held at the same time. Meet with other families facing similar challenges. For dates, times and registration information, call Marissa Marrucca at 609.584.6680.

Look Good...Feel Better Program
This free program, made possible by the American Cancer Society, is a one-time makeover for women undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation, and is provided by trained cosmetologists and hair stylists. It takes place at CINJ-H every other month on the third Monday (other locations are available). For more information and to register, call the American Cancer Society at 609.895.0101

Sharing Your Journey Through Cancer
Discussion and support for people living with cancer, their family and friends. These open discussion meetings help promote mutual problem-solving and facilitate sharing. Meetings take place on the first and third Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the CINJ-H conference room. For more information, call Marissa Marrucca at 609.584.6680.

Teen Support
This group workshop is for teenagers between the ages of 13-18 who have a parent with cancer. By participating in activities, exercises and discussions, teenagers will be given the opportunity to learn how to cope with the challenges cancer can bring to a family. For more information, call Marissa Marrucca at 609.584.6680.

Young Women with Cancer Support Group
This group, designed for woman under the age of 45 who are diagnosed with breast and/or gynecological cancers, meets at CINJ-H every third Tuesday of the month. For more information, call 609.584.2836.

More About RWJ Hamilton
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJ Hamilton) is the only New Jersey hospital to receive the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. Located in Hamilton Township, NJ, the hospital is part of the RWJ Health System and Network and is affiliated with the University of Medicine and Dentistry New Jersey-RWJ Medical School and the Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

The RWJ Hamilton Health Care Corporation serves communities within a five-county area and includes an acute care hospital, the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Hamilton, three affiliated medical groups, seven Lakeview Child Centers, and the RWJ Hamilton Center for Health & Wellness, home of a medically-based fitness center and the hospital's extensive community education program. Over 1,900 hospital employees and 650 medical staff physicians share RWJ Hamilton's passion for Excellence Through Service. For more information, visit www.rwjhamilton.org.