My Summer at Sharsheret
This summer, I was privileged to work as an intern at Sharsheret, with the specific goal of helping to expand the ovarian cancer program. Due to the nature of its diagnosis, most ovarian cancers are only detected at advanced stages as they are often initially attributed to common illnesses. Sharsheret helps to provide resources, such as a Thriving Again survivorship kit, to young Jewish women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and ovarian cancer survivors. The Thriving Again Survivorship kit helps these women create a personalized care plan and learn more about survivorship.
During my internship I worked on reviewing and updating Sharsheret’s ovarian cancer survivorship resources that are included in the Thriving Again Survivorship kit. I was also involved in multiple outreach projects to help spread awareness about the work Sharsheret does for ovarian cancer patients and survivors. I was in contact with medical centers, Jewish healing centers, and Bikur Cholim programs across the country to inform them about how we help the women in need, adding how they could help as well, through partnerships or cultural competency trainings. My hope is that through these projects, more women will know that Sharsheret is a place they can turn to for resources and support.
This internship was both informative and meaningful for me; living in Teaneck, I had always heard the name “Sharsheret” and recognized the organization as an important one for women with breast and ovarian cancer. However, I was not fully aware of the amount that the organization does for these women, and I am so grateful to have seen firsthand how passionate the staff is. There is a constant flow of support coming from Sharsheret, and the dedication to helping women with breast and ovarian cancer is remarkable. I look forward to keeping connected to Sharsheret and I am excited to watch the organization continue to grow.