After a routine visit to her dermatologist led to a biopsy of suspicious lumps, longtime East Hampton resident, Jacquelyn Little, was referred to Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Ellen Hermanson Breast Center. Further diagnostic testing confirmed that Jacquelyn had breast cancer.
In January 2026, Dr. Edna Kapenhas, Medical Director of the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center, performed a mastectomy to remove the cancerous tumor. Following surgery, Jacquelyn continued her care at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Center for Advanced Wound Healing, under the care of wound care surgeon, Dr. Lawrence Tarasuk, where the surgical site treatment included the use of a wound vac, along with Kerecis, an intact fish-skin graft used to support the growth of healthy tissue.
“Kerecis is structurally similar to human skin and acts as a framework to help recruit the patient’s own cells and blood vessels,” explained Dr. Tarasuk. “In Jacquelyn’s case, we used it alongside other wound-care treatments to help accelerate healing. At the Center for Advanced Wound Healing, our nurses and clinical team work closely together throughout the healing process to give each patient the individualized care they need.”
Once fully healed, Jacquelyn transitioned to the Phillips Family Cancer Center, the East End Southampton location of the Stony Brook Cancer Center, where she came under the care of medical oncologist, Dr. Anna Andrzejczyk. At the Phillips Family Cancer Center, Dr. Andrzejczyk and the oncology team became the next part of Jacquelyn’s care team, with a full understanding of the journey that began at the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center.
“Jacquelyn’s care is a great example of how our teams work together across Stony Brook Medicine to make sure patients receive the right care at every stage of their cancer journey,” said Dr. Andrzejczyk.
Throughout her journey, Jacquelyn has been cared for by multiple teams across Stony Brook Medicine, each playing an important role in her treatment and recovery. “From her initial diagnosis to surgery, recovery and ongoing treatment, Jacquelyn has a team of physicians and specialists working together to support her care,” said Dr. Kapenhas. “That continuity is very important for our patients, and we’re proud to be able to provide that level of coordinated care from start to finish.”
Today, Jacquelyn receives routine chemotherapy treatment at the Phillips Family Cancer Center as part of her ongoing treatment. “My care teams throughout this time have been wonderful and knowledgeable. I couldn’t have asked for more,” said Jacquelyn. "I feel I’ve received the best care available and I feel good. I’m optimistic because I know I am in good hands.”
To learn more about Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s Ellen Hermanson Breast Center call (631)726-8466. To learn more about the Phillips Family Cancer Center, call (631)638-7400.