Beyond the Ribbon was created to make room for conversations many women need but don’t always know where to find—especially young women facing breast cancer or concerned about their breast health. A diagnosis can be life-changing at any age. For younger women, it may come alongside questions about careers, fertility, raising children and relationships, as well as the challenge of finding others who understand.

The event also recognized that many young women are below the age when routine mammograms typically begin. They may be unsure what changes to look for, when to ask for help, or how to respond if their concerns are brushed aside. Beyond the Ribbon aimed to share helpful information, encourage women to speak up and ask questions, and make clear that concerns about breast health deserve to be heard. The evening welcomed everyone impacted by breast cancer, while placing a special focus on the experiences of young women.

Mondays Cancer Care was grateful to partner with Jenn Fasano, Founder of Babes in Business Long Island, to bring the evening to Great South Bay Brewery in Ronkonkoma on Wednesday October 7th, 2026. Together, we created space to learn, connect and support one another—and to honor the women whose lives were taken by breast cancer by carrying their legacy forward.

Moderated by Elisa DiStefano, the panel featured:

Dr. Diana Caragacianu, Chief of Breast Surgery, South Shore University Hospital
Dr. Yelda Nouri, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, New York Cancer & Blood Specialists
Pina Prianito, BA, MA, CFNC-BC, Functional Nutritional Counselor, Alluring Age

The discussion covered women’s health and wellness, nutrition, family history and genetics, breast health, prevention, and what to expect after a diagnosis. It opened the door to important conversations about knowing your family history, trusting your instincts and speaking up about concerns.

Guests also enjoyed shopping, food, drinks, desserts and wellness experiences. We’re grateful to all the vendors, volunteers and sponsors whose generosity helped make the evening welcoming and memorable.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. We hope the information and connections from Beyond the Ribbon continue to make it easier for women to find support, ask questions and feel less alone. No one should face breast cancer alone.

A huge thank you to the following:

Sponsors: New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, South Shore University Hospital, Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology, Suffolk Credit Union, Nonna’s Garden Foundation, Rockstar Wellness, Sweat & Tone

Vendors: Neora, Enekluso, Luxury Vintage Finds NY, Creative Pours by Jenn, What A Girl Wants, Lucky Charmz, Crystal Company, JMD by Jill DiVito, Pure Mammography, Village Therapy & Wellness, Alluring Age, The Wellness Stop, The Bouquet Barco, Legame Jewelry, Kat Beauty, LaRoche Posay, TC Collective Design, Ana Dean Photography, Social Media James, Iconogram

NonProfit Partners: West Islip Breast Cancer Coaliton, Babylon Breast Coalition