FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 4, 2017

 “Salon Strong” Recognizes Hair Stylists’ Role in Caring for Cancer Patients 

New York Oncology Hematology & Nathan Littauer Hospital Join Forces for First-Ever Event on January 9th at Johnstown Holiday Inn

JOHNSTOWN, NY – A woman depends on her hair stylist to look her best, but when she is diagnosed with cancer the relationship takes on even greater significance. Losing hair, or experiencing changes because of treatment, can be one of the toughest parts of a cancer journey.

Women have questions – and so do their stylists. That’s why New York Oncology Hematology and Nathan Littauer Hospital have teamed up to create “Salon Strong,” a first of its kind event that will bring together the region’s salon community for a free cocktail reception and education session on Monday, January 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at the Johnstown Holiday Inn.

“This is an opportunity to thank our local hair stylists and recognize them as critical partners in caring for our cancer patients,” said Arsyl De Jesus, MD, a radiation oncologist at New York Oncology Hematology’s Amsterdam office at Riverfront Center. She is speaking at the event. “We want to create a fun evening, share important information and answer questions. We also want everyone to walk away knowing they have resources they can turn to when a client comes to them with concerns.”

The cocktail reception is free, but registration is required by calling Nathan Littauer Hospital at 518-736-1120.

In addition to Dr. De Jesus, speakers at the event include:

Amy Karas, breast cancer survivor and patient of Dr. De Jesus. Karas, co-owner of Ruby & Quiry Carpet One Floor & Home, wore a series of wigs during her own treatment. She now coordinates gift bag donations to NYOH patients.

Tammy Merendo, RN, Director of Healthlink Community Education at Nathan Littauer Hospital

Jessica Bump, Hair Stylist, CW Hair Salon, Johnstown 

Cheryl McGrattan, Vice-President, Marketing/Public Relations/Community Relations at Nathan Littauer Hospital, said the event idea followed a conversation with Bump, her own stylist. One important part of the evening is a “Salon Strong” decal that each stylist will receive to place on the mirror at their station in the salon.

“We want this beautiful ‘Salon Strong’ logo to spark a conversation,” McGrattan explains. “Whether it is for themselves, a friend or family member, we hope it will create a network women can turn to. At Nathan Littauer, we are deeply committed to community education. We work closely with New York Oncology Hematology and are pleased to be partnering on this new initiative to help patients during cancer treatment.”

***SALON STRONG LOGO AND PHOTO OF DR. DE JESUS AVAILABLE***

About New York Oncology Hematology 

New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH) is the region’s largest provider of cancer treatment, serving Fulton and Montgomery County for more than 30 years. We offer seven convenient locations, a team of 30 physicians, and more than 350 cancer care specialists. Through our affiliation with The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest cancer treatment and research networks, NYOH offers the latest clinical trials, treatments, and technologies. World class care. Close to home.

About Nathan Littauer Hospital

Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home is a full-service, 74 bed acute care hospital with an 84 bed skilled nursing home in Gloversville, NY. Littauer provides the finest in state-of-the-art technology and a caring, dedicated staff of health care professionals. Over the years, the hospital has expanded its services in order offer health care that is comprehensive, accessible, and relevant to the needs of the communities we serve. The Littauer medical staff brings amazing technical expertise and competence to the residents of Fulton County and the surrounding communities.