Working the Sister Study Helpdesk
by Jenifer Alexander
As a staff person assigned to the Sister Study helpdesk phone, I did not know exactly what to expect when we launched the study back in August 2003. It did not take me long to find out. Right away the phone started to ring and I had the pleasure of speaking with women from all over the country interested in breast cancer research, helping their sisters, and learning about the Sister Study.
The most noticeable thing about these women is their zest for life. I have spoken with many women who have breast cancer themselves and have made it their mission to do what they can to help future daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and sisters avoid the sometimes devastating effects of breast cancer. Often times I speak with women who are in the study - sisters of women with breast cancer - who let me know that since the Sister Study has come along they finally believe they can help their sister when before they never knew how. Other times women call in and just want to know how they can help. This can-do attitude is refreshing and, on a personal level, has helped shape my perspective as well.
Breast cancer is personal and emotional and I know of no one who is unaffected
by this disease. Women often call in to tell their personal story of being
touched by breast cancer. Their positive attitudes are amazing and infectious.
It is when I speak with these women that I know our efforts have potentially
far-reaching effects. I feel lucky to be a part of this amazing community
of people, nation-wide, who fight every day for answers, for understanding,
and for change. The Sister Study is committed to these women - all women
- and I feel proud to be a small part of this ambitious effort to provide
answers and hope to so many.