Community Corner
Meet The Coalition For Women's Cancers: 'You Are Not Alone'
"One of the bravest things you can do is to ask for help. We are here to help you and to remind you that 'You are not alone.'"
EAST END, NY — Local charities are the unsung heroes of our communities. Nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations strive to create lasting change and positively impact the lives of those around them.
Some people start organizations as a way to cope with grief, some see an issue they want to tackle, and some want to bring lasting change. Sometimes, all those reasons apply.
Patch wants to highlight your local charity and connect it with community members who want to help and do good, so that way, more people can benefit. Here is just one of many charities doing terrific work in your community.
What is your name?
Susan Roden
What is the name of your charity?
Coalition for Women's Cancers
What is your position within your charity?
Founder and President
What community is your organization based in?
Riverhead to Montauk and Shelter Island
Link to your website
What is your mission?
The mission of The Coalition for Women’s is to create and sustain a supportive network in our community for women affected by breast and gynecologic cancers. CWC focuses on education, early detection and empowerment to bring about better health care and improved quality of life. Women on the East End of Long Island (Towns of East Hampton, Southampton and Shelter Island) diagnosed with breast and gynecological cancers are offered support, strength and hope.
What does your charity do to further its mission? Please list examples.
In January 2024, we are launching health fairs that will feature the mammography van making more frequent visits to the eastern region. We collaborate closely with local cancer organizations to ensure there is no duplication of services. Our outreach extends to libraries, schools, and community organizations, where we emphasize the critical importance of early detection. Additionally, we actively engage with the underserved population, employing two patient navigators — one of whom is bilingual and bicultural.
What inspired you to start your charity?
I was diagnosed with breast cancer 35 years ago and I had no one to turn to. Once I recovered, I decided that no one can go through this journey alone, so I started a breast/gyn cancer coalition to help women and their families in our community.
How can people help you accomplish your organization's mission or get involved in events?
We are always looking for volunteers. If interested, please contact sroden@cwcshh.org. We meet the third Tuesday of the month in Water Mill at 6:30 p.m.
Also, if anyone knows of someone in our local community diagnosed with breast or gyn cancers, please have them contact us at 631-204-9331. Nothing breaks my heart more than hearing, "I only wish I knew your organization existed when I was going through treatment."
What is the most memorable moment you've had since starting your organization?
Helping a single mom at Christmastime and having her young son thanking me and telling everyone I was Santa's secretary.
What else would you like people to know about your charity?
One of the bravest things you can do is to ask for help. We are here to help you and to remind you that, "You are not alone!"
What are your organization's social media pages or handles?
Do you help run a charity?
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