Senator Helming Honors Breast Cancer Advocates

Senator Helming and officials present breast cancer awareness proclamations to advocates, with a screen showing related messages.
Senator Pam Helming (center) and local officials present proclamations to breast cancer advocates during an awareness event in the Finger Lakes region.

Senator Pam Helming joined survivors, community leaders, fellow elected officials, and staff of the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester at the organization’s annual Legislative Reception. The event highlighted the importance of bipartisan cooperation in advancing policies that support patients, survivors, and families affected by breast cancer.

During the evening, Senator Helming and colleagues recognized Phyllis Connelly, a longtime advocate and survivor affectionately known as the “Queen Mum,” for more than two decades of leadership and service to the Coalition and the broader breast cancer advocacy community. Connelly was presented with a New York State Senate Proclamation honoring her extraordinary dedication, with leaders from both parties joining in the celebration.

“Cancer transcends politics,” said Senator Helming. “I was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues from both sides of the aisle to support the Coalition’s critical advocacy work and to celebrate Phyllis Connelly’s remarkable contributions over her 90 years of life! Collaboration is how good policy gets done.”

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