Dominos Pizza in Bridgewater has teamed up with RMH Women’s Services to provide free meal coupons for women undergoing mastectomy and treatment for breast cancer.
This generosity was the idea of Sue Nelson, manager for Bridgewater Domino’s. Nelson recently underwent a bilateral mastectomy (removal of both breasts) for breast cancer, followed by breast reconstruction. Her act of kindness was inspired by her memories of how helpful it was when people brought her a meal.
“I remember coming home from treatment and the last thing I wanted to do was cook,” she said. “People would bring me everything from lasagna to cookies. It really meant a lot to me to know how much they cared.”
In mid-November 2010, after going back for additional surgery, Nelson received approval to give gift certificates for a free meal at Domino’s to all RMH patients having mastectomies.
“Sue brought 20 gift coupons for RMH patients and asked us to let her know when they run out so she could bring back more,” explained Breast Health Navigator Deanna Lam, RN, of the RMH Women’s Center. “She wanted to do something nice for others who are going through what she had experienced.”
Because of HIPAA regulations ensuring patient confidentiality, Nelson won’t know the names of the patients who receive the gift certificates. But that’s not important, she said. “What matters is that patients know someone is thinking of them,” she noted. “I feel like I am part of this network of people who care. Total strangers reached out to me when they found out what I was going through.
Lam noted that patients undergoing bilateral mastectomies endure a great deal of emotional pressure. “Such an act of thoughtfulness can go a long way in the road to recovery,” she said.
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