Breast Cancer Survivor Advocates for Access to Scalp Cooling

After completing breast cancer treatment, Maureen Green used her experience to advocate for others. She shared her story to help pass legislation making scalp cooling (an option that helps patients preserve their hair during chemotherapy) more accessible and affordable.

In an interview with CURE, Maureen explained that she felt fortunate to afford scalp cooling herself but wanted to ensure others wouldn’t have to choose based on cost. “If you’re willing to give it a try, you should be able to, because it’s very important for many people to look like themselves and maintain control over the privacy of their diagnosis,” she said.

Although she couldn’t travel to Albany due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Maureen provided a patient impact statement to support the bill. Today, she’s grateful that the legislation has passed and continues to raise awareness about both the emotional and financial sides of cancer care.

Transcript

Why you decided to advocate for scalp cooling and help other patients in the future?

Someone from Paxman, the company that makes the scalp cooling machines I used, reached out after I finished treatment and asked if I would make a statement to help them get this legislation passed. I felt we were so lucky to be able to afford it, and it just seemed unfair that someone would have to make that choice based on financial reasons. If you’re willing to give it a try, you should be able to, because it’s very important for many people to look like themselves and maintain control over the privacy of their diagnosis.

I gave my patient impact statement, though this was close to the start of the pandemic, so I didn’t go to Albany in person. Still, I was glad to help in any way I could, and I’m very happy that the legislation has since passed. It took a while, but I’m so glad it finally happened.

Transcript has been edited for clarity and conciseness.

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