Turning the table on the traditional parent-child relationship, sister and brother Jessica and David Rutter recently presented their mother, Hillary, with a check for $1,000. The occasion was an award ceremony of Youth Against Cancer, a program of Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School where Jessica, a senior, and David, a freshman, are club members. Their mother is the director of the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program, one of six cancer projects selected by the students to each receive a thousand dollar check.

YAC was begun six years ago to create awareness in the school and larger community about cancer and to raise funds for local organizations. Over the years, under the guidance of faculty advisor Marilyn Leone, the students have written a cookbook, sewn a remembrance quilt, and created a memorial garden at the school. They have participated in numerous health fairs and fundraisers. They produce a bimonthly newsletter that educates students about such topics as protecting against skin cancer and non-toxic lawn care.

The other groups receiving support from YAC were Cancer Care, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, A Mother's Kiss, Plainview Breast Cancer Coalition and Schneider's Child Life.

The Hotline is New York State's only breast cancer hotline, providing emotional support, information and referrral. Support groups are offered locally. The number is 800-877-8077. Help is just a phone call away.