For many people, scheduling a mammogram can feel easy to put off—especially when life is busy or the appointment feels uncomfortable to think about. But taking this simple step is an act of care for yourself and for the people who love you. Mammograms give you and your health care team important information, and they can offer peace of mind when results are normal or help guide timely care when follow-up is needed.
Why do mammograms matter? A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used to look for signs of breast cancer, often before a lump can be felt or symptoms appear. While no screening test can prevent cancer, regular mammograms can help find breast cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective and options may be less intensive.
Early detection can save lives. Breast cancer can sometimes grow silently. Mammograms are valuable because they can detect changes in breast tissue before a person notices anything unusual. According to public health guidance, regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer and can help doctors begin treatment at an earlier stage.
One in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer during her lifetime.1 It is important to note that when breast cancer is diagnosed at an early, localized stage, the five-year survival rate is greater than 99%.2 It is also important to recognize that approximately 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.3
Getting a mammogram is quick and simple. Most appointments take about 20 minutes from start to finish. If you are at average risk for breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that you have a mammogram every year starting at age 40. If you are at higher risk, you may need to begin screenings earlier or have screenings more often. Talk with your doctor to create a screening plan that is right for you based on your personal risk factors.
If you are due for a mammogram or are unsure when to start screening, schedule a conversation with your health care provider. Ask about your personal risk, the best screening schedule for you, and whether additional imaging is recommended. By staying informed and keeping up with the screening that is right for you, you are taking a caring, proactive step toward protecting your breast health.
At UPMC Chautauqua, we use Genius 3D Mammography, which detects 41% more invasive breast cancers and reduces false positives by up to 40%. This technology lets doctors view breast tissue layer by layer, making fine details easier to see and less likely to be hidden by surrounding tissue.
Making an appointment is a simple and important step you can take for your health. Ask your physician for an order, then call to schedule the screening that is right for you. At UPMC Chautauqua, we offer screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, stereotactic and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies, and breast MRI services.
Taking time for a mammogram is a small step that can make a meaningful difference. If you have been putting it off, consider this your gentle reminder: your health is worth the appointment, and you do not have to wait until something feels wrong to check in.
Take a moment to schedule your mammogram—this simple call can be an important step in caring for yourself. To make an appointment, please call 716-664-8448.
Sources: 1 American Cancer Society, “Key Statistics for Breast Cancer”; 2 CDC, “U.S. Cancer Statistics Female Breast Cancer Stat Bite”; 3 National Breast Cancer Foundation, “Breast Cancer Facts & Stats.”
JAMESTOWN, N.Y. – The Jamestown Rotary Noon Club will welcome Dr. Nabeela Patail, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Chautauqua as their featured luncheon speaker on Monday, October 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Jamestown.
Dr. Patail will discuss breast cancer prevention, early detection, advances in breast cancer treatment, and the importance of access to high-quality cancer care close to home.
Dr. Patail earned her medical degree from St. George’s University in Grenada. She completed her residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and a Hematology/Oncology fellowship at SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine. Dr. Patail is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, and Hematology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
The community is invited to attend this informative presentation and enjoy a complimentary lunch provided by the WCA Foundation. The program offers an opportunity to learn more about breast cancer care, screening recommendations, treatment advances, and the oncology services available locally at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Chautauqua.
Reservations are required and must be made by October 22. To reserve a seat, contact the WCA Foundation at 716-664-8665 or email Emily Cama at Camaes@upmc.edu with the number of guests attending.
Executive Director, WCA Foundation
The WCA Foundation is proud to partner with an outstanding group of organizations and local businesses to recognize October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This important month is dedicated to education, early detection, support, and hope for those impacted by breast cancer.
Breast cancer affects approximately 1 in 8 women during their lifetime, making it one of the most common cancers among women. The encouraging news is that when breast cancer is detected early, before it advances, the five-year survival rate is more than 99%. These statistics reinforce the importance of annual mammograms and regular screenings, which remain among the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage.
Throughout October, the WCA Foundation will offer a variety of activities focused on breast health awareness, prevention, survivorship, and support. Together, we will celebrate survivors, honor loved ones and encourage both women and men throughout our community to prioritize their health through regular screenings.
The funds raised through these efforts are critical to advancing breast health services in our community. One of the Foundation’s most significant initiatives has been partnering with generous donors to enhance and renovate the Mammography Department at UPMC Chautauqua. We recognize that for many women and men, a mammogram can be an emotional and anxiety-producing experience. This renovation has been thoughtfully designed to create a more welcoming, private, and comforting environment that restores dignity, respects privacy, and provides peace of mind for every patient. We are pleased to share that the planning and design phases are nearing completion, and renovations will begin once the remaining funds are secured.
As we come together this month, I encourage you to learn more about breast health, participate in our Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities, and support efforts to advance breast health services in our community. Every gift helps invest in resources, technology, and patient-centered spaces that make a meaningful difference in the lives of local women, men, and their families.
Most importantly, if you are due for a screening, please schedule your annual mammogram. It is one simple appointment that could save your life. Early detection remains our strongest defense against breast cancer and taking that step today could make all the difference tomorrow.
Thank you for joining us in raising awareness, supporting individuals and families impacted by breast cancer, and helping to ensure that exceptional breast health services remain available close to home.
The committee of the annual Framed in Pink fundraiser is carrying forward the event’s mission in a new way this year. Following the recent closure of a local bowling alley, organizers have pivoted from the long-running Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer event to a cornhole tournament scheduled for September 27 at the Celoron Moose, 52 Dunham Avenue, Celoron, NY. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m., with cornhole beginning at 1 p.m. The cost is $40 for a team of two.
Founded in 2014 by the late Sue Lamb, Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer began as a bowling fundraiser and quickly became a beloved community tradition, drawing nearly 150 bowlers each year. To date, the effort has raised more than $91,600 with the support of the WCA Foundation endowment’s investment. All funds are directed to care for local women and men receiving treatment for breast cancer.
Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will support the mammography expansion at UPMC Chautauqua, helping enhance access to breast imaging services and support early detection for patients in the community. Although this year’s fundraiser will look different, the committee is determined to build upon their success through community support, sponsorships, raffles, and other giving opportunities connected to the cornhole tournament.
Sue Lamb passed away in 2021 from health issues unrelated to breast cancer. Today, her daughters, family members, and friends continue raising funds and awareness in her honor. Julie Abramson and her sisters are helping lead the ongoing effort to continue their mother’s legacy. “My mother took great pride in making a difference for patients, helping them live beyond a breast cancer diagnosis and enjoy life to the fullest,” said Julie Abramson, Lamb’s daughter.
Generous donors and local businesses will help ensure the success of this year’s fundraiser, continuing the strong community support that has made Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer a triumph year after year.
As family and friends prepare for the September 27 Framed in Pink Cornhole Tournament at the Celoron Moose, 52 Dunham Avenue, Celoron, NY, those interested in registering a team of two for $40, making a financial contribution, sponsoring the fundraiser, or donating a gift basket may contact framedinpink@gmail.com or call Julie Abramson 716-485-8456. Updates are also available on their Facebook page Framed in Pink Bowling Over Breast Cancer.
The WCA Foundation is honoring the life and legacy of Brad Van Riper through the Brad and Becky Van Riper Digestive System Cancer Endowment Fund, which supports patients facing digestive system cancer. Brad died from a rare form of bile duct cancer, a disease that is often difficult to detect in its early stages and can be challenging to treat. The fund was established by Becky Van Riper-Brooks and their sons, Chris and Aaron, following Brad’s passing in 2018. The endowment is a lasting tribute to his faith, generosity, and commitment to helping others.
Throughout his life, Brad made a meaningful impact both professionally and personally. He spent 40 years at Truck-Lite, where his creativity and innovation led to numerous patents, including the industry’s first LED lighting technologies. His service to the community was equally significant. As Executive Director of the LINKS Charity Golf Tournament, Brad helped raise funds to support breast cancer care at UPMC Chautauqua, demonstrating the same care for others that defined his life.
“Brad spent his life caring for others,” said Becky Van Riper-Brooks. “This fund is a meaningful way to honor his memory and continue his legacy of compassion and service.”
Gifts to the Brad and Becky Van Riper Digestive System Cancer Endowment Fund will help support patients facing digestive system cancer by strengthening access to early detection, treatment, and expert care close to home. Donations may be made through the WCA Foundation in memory of Brad Van Riper.
About the WCA Foundation
The WCA Foundation supports UPMC Chautauqua by advancing patient care, supporting hospital initiatives, and investing in programs that strengthen the health and well-being of the Jamestown community. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation helps ensure that gifts made locally stay local and directly benefit patients, families, staff, and services at UPMC Chautauqua.
Online gifts may be made at wcafoundationjamestown.org. Gifts may also be mailed to the WCA Foundation, 51 Glasgow Avenue, P.O. Box 840, Jamestown, NY 14702, c/o Van Riper Fund. For more information, contact Kristin Melville, Executive Director, WCA Foundation, at 716-664-8665.
The 10th and final Shades of Pink Golf Tournament was held on Friday, August 7, at South Hills Country Club. Over the past decade, the event has raised nearly $100,000 to support breast cancer care and prevention education at UPMC Chautauqua.
Founded by Steve and Anne Sischo, the tournament was inspired by Anne Sischo’s journey from breast cancer patient to survivor and her commitment to helping others facing breast cancer. Proceeds have supported mammography services, patient navigation, prevention education, and equipment that help ensure access to quality care close to home.
Proceeds from this year’s tournament will support the expansion of the Mammography Department at UPMC Chautauqua, helping provide greater access to early detection services.
“What began with Anne’s desire to help others facing breast cancer has grown into a cherished community tradition,” said Kristin Melville, Executive Director of the WCA Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to Steve and Anne Sischo, whose vision inspired so many people to come together in support of breast cancer care, prevention education, and early detection services.”
While this year’s event concludes the tournament’s 10-year run, its mission will continue through the Anne Sischo Shades of Pink Fund, an endowed fund at the WCA Foundation supporting breast cancer care, prevention education, mammography services, and patient navigation programs.
To make a donation to the Anne Sischo Shades of Pink Fund, visit wcafoundationjamestown.org. For more information, contact Kristin Melville at melvillek@upmc.edu.
JAMESTOWN – The WCA Foundation recently held its 44th Annual Meeting on June 9 at UPMC Chautauqua. During the meeting, board members and staff reflected on the Foundation’s accomplishments, celebrated key milestones, and recognized two leaders whose service helped guide a period of significant growth and transformation.
Board Chair, James Pullan, Jr. and Treasurer and Finance Chair, James Domagola were honored for their nine years of dedicated service to the Foundation. During their tenure, the Foundation strengthened its operations, enhanced its investment performance, expanded its philanthropic impact, and increased its support of UPMC Chautauqua and the patients it serves.
Their leadership helped advance key initiatives, including the hiring of the Foundation’s first full-time Executive Director, strengthening donor stewardship efforts, and expanding philanthropic support for healthcare programs and services at UPMC Chautauqua.
“The leadership and dedication demonstrated by Jim Pullan and Jim Domagola over the past nine years have left a lasting mark on the Foundation,” said Kristin Melville, Executive Director of the WCA Foundation. “They have been exceptional stewards of our mission; and their vision, commitment, and support have helped position the Foundation for continued success. We are deeply grateful for their service and the legacy they leave behind.”
The WCA Foundation welcomed new board leadership. Newly elected officers who will serve for one year: Kelly Johnson, Esq., Chair; The Honorable Jeffrey Piazza, Vice Chair; Peter Morgante, CPA, Treasurer and Finance Chair; and John A. “Chip” Johnson, Secretary. Melville said, “We’re excited to begin collaborating with this fantastic team of skilled and knowledgeable professionals.”
About the WCA Foundation
The WCA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit supporting foundation to UPMC Chautauqua. Independent from the hospital, the WCA Foundation ensures donations remain in the Jamestown community, as do the grants it awards in support of healthcare initiatives. Since its founding in 1982, the WCA Foundation has grown through the generosity of donors and careful stewardship of charitable gifts. Over $15M in support has been awarded to UPMC Chautauqua for patient care, healthcare services, medical equipment, and staff scholarships Through philanthropy, the WCA Foundation continues to connect community generosity with opportunities to strengthen healthcare today and for future generations.
Jamestown – A generous Lakewood couple has donated $100,000 through the WCA Foundation to establish a workforce scholarship fund benefiting UPMC Chautauqua employees.
Of the total gift, $50,000 will be invested into an endowment to provide a permanent source of scholarship support for future generations of healthcare workers, while the remaining $50,000 has been designated as an immediate impact gift, allowing scholarships to be awarded right away as the endowment grows and matures.
The scholarship fund is intended to help employees pursue higher education, certifications, and professional credentials that will allow them to advance within the healthcare field. Whether an employee hopes to transition to a different department, pursue a new healthcare profession, or gain specialized skills, the fund will help remove financial barriers to achieving those goals. By investing in education and career advancement, the scholarship program will empower employees to improve their personal financial circumstances while strengthening the quality of healthcare available throughout our community.
“We are thrilled and deeply honored to receive this extraordinary gift from a couple with strong ties to our community,” said Kristin Melville, Executive Director of the WCA Foundation. “Their generosity demonstrates a meaningful commitment to supporting the growth and development of UPMC Chautauqua’s healthcare workforce. This scholarship fund will create opportunities for employees to pursue new career paths, earn degrees and credentials, and achieve greater financial stability for themselves and their families. At the same time, it will help address workforce needs and enhance the care provided to our community.” The donors’ decision to create both an endowed fund and an immediate-use scholarship fund ensures that employees can benefit today while establishing a legacy for the future. While they have chosen to remain anonymous, they look forward to staying involved with the WCA Foundation and seeing the impact this investment grow.
“This transformative gift reflects the donors’ belief that investing in people is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen healthcare.” Melville, added, “One of the most inspiring aspects of this gift is that it creates an opportunity for others to join in its impact. Anyone can contribute to the fund and help invest in the future of our healthcare workforce. Together, we can create opportunities for employees, strengthen healthcare in our community, and build a legacy that will benefit generations to come. The best way to sum up this wonderful gift, is through the donors themselves whose heartfelt message to UPMC Chautauqua employees, “’BE ALL YOU CAN BE AT UPMC!’”
Kristin Melville
Executive Director, WCA Foundation
51 Glasgow Avenue, P.O. Box 840
Jamestown, NY 14702-0840
Phone: (716) 664-8665 Office
Email: Melvillek@upmc.edu
Donate: wcafoundationjamestown.org
For more information about the Pathways to Advancement: Workforce Development Fund or other ways to support healthcare in our community, please contact the WCA Foundation.
Jamestown – Cummins, Inc. employees are all heart. For more than a decade, Cummins employees have purchased flowers and chocolates on site for their significant others in celebration of Valentines Day with all proceeds benefiting UPMC Chautauqua’s Cardiac Care. Cummins Employee Resource Group and their Women’s Empowerment Network are led by Mellisa Pollino and Dori Highhouse who manage a core team of 30 people across all three shifts hosting a variety of meaningful fundraising activities. Their largest events, Heart Awareness, International Women’s Day, International Day of the Girl, and Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns bring awareness to their employees and while raising community funds for non-profit organizations.
UPMC Chautauqua has been the beneficiary from their annual Heart and Breast Cancer Campaigns. Kristin Melville, Executive Director of the WCA Foundation, remarked at the check presentation, “Cummins employees have helped citizens of Chautauqua County stay healthy. Funds from their health campaigns have made improvements to the hospital’s patient cardiac gym, expanded the mammography patient treatment area, and introduced vital education and prevention programs that raise awareness for their employees. Cummins employees are some of the most generous and thoughtful donors, and this gift of $4,900 is just one more commitment demonstrating their dedication to the health of our communities.
Pictured: L – Jennifer Hetrick, Cummins Employee Resource Group; Kristin Melville, Executive Director, WCA Foundation, and Melissa Pollino, Cummins Employee Resource Group and Women’s Empowerment.