Breast cancer patients, survivors and their families will have an opportunity to learn about emerging issues in breast cancer research in a day-long conference on Saturday, February 11 at Rider University in the Bart Luedeke Center.

Upholding the theme, "10 Years of The Breast Cancer Research Fund: A Celebration of Survivorship," the conference is sponsored by the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research and Rider University. A continental breakfast and a hot lunch will be served. Registration is free. All are encouraged to register early since seating is limited. Registration is free.

"We have planned an informative and heartfelt gathering that will bring together up-to-date research information with inspiring testimonials from breast cancer survivors," said Dr. Jonathan Yavelow, professor of biology at Rider. The program is organized by AnnMarie Hill and Michael Toleno of the New Jersey State Commission for Cancer Research in conjunction with Dr. Yavelow.

Special highlights of the day include "A Son's Perspective on Breast Cancer," presented by Vincent Curatola (aka Johnny Sacks) of the HBO show, "The Sopranos" and the keynote presentation, "Ten Years of Progress in the Fight Against Breast Cancer," given by Dr. V. Craig Jordan, known as the "father" of Tomoxifen. Dr. Jordan is vice president and scientific director for Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Among the other speakers to be featured are: Betsy Kohler, director of Cancer Epidemiology Services for the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, who will speak on "Cancer in New Jersey;" cancer specialists on "Advances in the Care of Patients with Breast Cancer," and patients on "How Breast Cancer Changed My Life."

For more information, call the New Jersey Commission for Cancer Research at 609-631-4747 or Dr. Yavelow at 609-896-5093.