LOCAL FARMER ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO PRIORITIZE THEIR HEALTH
NYDOH | Wendy’s Human Interest Story
SHERBURNE, N.Y. - Wendy Gillette’s daily routine is full - if she’s not tending to the family farm with her husband, she’s soaking in quality time with her children and grandchildren. With her busy schedule, Gillette’s health wasn’t a top priority.
“I am a person who’s not always been good about taking care of myself and putting myself first,” Gillette shared.
As her family grew, Gillette realized that taking care of her health made it possible for her to take care of the people she loved.
“As I’m aging, I’m realizing I am important… I need to take the time to have screenings, prioritize my own health,” Gillette said.
Without health insurance, accessing preventative care was a challenge. Then Gillette reached out to the New York State Cancer Services Program, and knew she was in good hands.
“This program is available for the person who doesn’t have insurance… you can have the peace of mind to know that you can get things checked out,” Gillette said.
The program provides free cancer services–including cervical, breast and colorectal cancer
screenings–to eligible women throughout New York state. These services help women like Gillette make their health a priority through preventative care.
“New York State Cancer Services Program has been such a blessing to me and my family,” Gillette said.
Now that she’s found confidence in her health, Gillette hopes to encourage other women–especially her daughters–to take charge of their own well-being.
Find out if you’re eligible for free cervical cancer screening services through the Southern Tier Cancer Services Program! Visit health.ny.gov/CancerServicesProgram, or call toll-free at
607-778-3900 to learn more.
