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  • Diana Suarez: Member Profile

    Diana Suarez: Member Profile

    Diana Suárez

    Housekeeper, the Pavilion at Queens for Rehabilitation & Nursing

    WHY

    When Diana was diagnosed with breast cancer, she found the strength to fight it for her daughter and she was inspired by the powerful story of fellow survivor, 1199er Melissa Spells. Now Diana is sharing her own journey.

    Last year, Diana Suárez was playing with her 2-year-old daughter, Eliana, when she felt a burning sensation in her chest. So, she went to see her doctor, who suggested she get a mammogram right away.

    Diana took his advice and was diagnosed with breast cancer, but because of the early detection, she was able to quickly begin treatment. She underwent a double mastectomy and needed six months of chemotherapy, followed by radiation. The process would not be easy, and she had seen family members go through treatment. Two years earlier, her husband was diagnosed with throat cancer and she also watched her grandmother fight breast cancer.

    Listen to Diana’s story.

    “Sometimes I felt like I wasn’t going to make it,” she said. “But then I would think about my daughter, and I kept battling.”

    Although Diana was worried about how she would handle the treatment, she was thankful that her job as a housekeeper at The Pavilion at Queens for Rehabilitation & Nursing was safe and that her 1199SEIU health benefits would cover her every step of the way. “I’m very grateful for my benefits,” she said. “Because of them, I had one less thing to worry about on my health journey.”

    Diana found another source of inspiration in the For Your Benefit magazine that arrived last year, just when things were at their most difficult. Reading about Melissa Spells, another 1199er who beat breast cancer, and watching her Members’ Voices video, gave Diana the hope she needed. “I had tears in my eyes when I saw her story,” she said. “I said if Melissa can survive this, I can too. I want to thank her for sharing her story.”

    Reading about Melissa Spells, another 1199er who beat breast cancer, and watching her Members’ Voices video, gave Diana the hope she needed.

    Diana’s determination paid off and she’s finished her radiation treatment. She’s feeling better, and in a few months she’ll be ready for reconstructive surgery. While the whole experience has been challenging, it’s given Diana clarity. “Going through this made me realize I have to let go of my fears,” she said. “Not just about breast cancer, but about everything in my life.”

    Diana was always afraid to learn how to drive. But surviving has given her a chance to overcome that fear. Her husband bought her a used car and she earned her license this past summer. “For the first time in my life, I can drive a car. I’m very excited,” she said.

    Originally from Colombia, Diana is also taking advantage of the Benefit Funds’ online classes to learn English. Her Child Care Fund benefits are helping to cover babysitting costs, giving her more time to accomplish her goals. Her new routine includes eating healthier, walking more and taking online Zumba classes. Diana is grateful for all her 1199SEIU benefits. “Without coverage for my treatment and medications, the outcome could have been different,” she said. “Instead, I feel reborn. And I’m so thankful for the support I received from my husband, family and co-workers.”

    What’s Diana’s advice for fellow 1199 members? “Get screened for breast cancer as soon as you can,” she said. “And if you do need treatment, don’t lose hope, keep fighting!”

    Healthy Benefits

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    Member Profiles

    Merlene Hardy

    Diana Suárez

    Yolanda Acevedo

    Melissa Spells

    Sofia Espinoza

    Sharese Welch

    Tykar Williams

    Malikah Weston

    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • 2026: A guide to healthier living

    2026: A guide to healthier living

    2026: A guide to healthier living

    Every January, we’re bombarded with ads pushing extreme, all-or-nothing resolutions. This guide takes a different approach. It provides an outline to help you take charge with realistic, achievable changes that move you closer to your goals. Keep reading for simple steps you can take today to set yourself on the path to healthier living.

    Health is a journey—and as 1199SEIU members, we have health benefits that are designed to support good health every day.

    When we make the most of our benefits—whether it’s getting preventive screenings or making healthy lifestyle changes—we can enjoy being healthy now and later. With the tools, resources and support we have at our fingertips, we can take proactive steps toward well-being and live our healthiest lives.

    “Healthy Now, Healthy Later” is more than just a phrase—it’s a philosophy that can transform the way we think about healthcare. Too often, we wait until something’s wrong before using our benefits—but they offer so much to help us stay healthy and feel our best long before we ever need medical care.

    Your 1199SEIU health benefits make it easy to stay ahead of potential issues with preventive care and healthy lifestyle programs. From screenings and wellness resources to chronic condition management, you’ve got everything you need to take a proactive approach to your health.

    Start with a checkup

    Scheduling your annual exam with your primary care provider can set the tone for healthy living throughout the year. In addition to helping you monitor any existing issues, “knowing your numbers”—weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol­—can guide your personalized health plan.

    During the exam, your doctor will assess your health from head to toe. Your doctor may also request blood work for a closer look at how your body is functioning.

    If you have any questions or concerns, this is the time to speak up! Your exam should ultimately be a conversation between you and your doctor. To ensure you cover everything on your mind, take some time before the exam to write down any questions you have. Sharing your concerns with your doctor gives them a fuller picture of your health, and builds a strong and trusting patient-provider relationship that will improve your treatment.

    For more information and resources, visit our Healthy Living Resource Center.

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Create a well-rounded plan to support your health journey

    Create a well-rounded plan to support your health journey

    Create a well-rounded plan to support your health journey

    Healthy Eating

    Food is the fuel that keeps us running, so it’s important to make smart, healthy choices in what we feed our bodies.

    future bright pension

    Step 1: Do a weekly “kitchen assessment” and replenish your fridge with fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean protein, like chicken, fish and tofu. Next, take stock of your pantry items to ensure you have whole grains, like brown rice and quinoa, and several types of beans that can serve as a healthy base for meals.

    Step 2: Create your meal plan—pick a day to plan your meals for the week and do your shopping. Consider meals that you can make or prep parts of in advance, like batch-roasting veggies or cutting up ingredients for easy assembly. Having the pieces ready to go makes eating healthy meals convenient, and lessens the likelihood that you’ll order takeout. Along with your “go-to” recipes, get creative­—think Meatless Mondays or Taco Tuesdays—and don’t be afraid to experiment.

    Healthy Body

    Get at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week. Pick something you like—maybe it’s fast-paced walking, weightlifting or dancing. Consistent practice improves circulation, burns calories and helps weight management.

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    Set a goal: It doesn’t matter if it’s big or small. Giving yourself a health challenge with weekly progress markers and a deadline to achieve it is the important part. If you don’t reach the goal within your timeframe, don’t get discouraged­—just move the goalpost and keep going.

    Rest and recharge: Scheduling rest days is essential to reaching your goals. Rest gives your muscles and joints the chance to repair and get stronger. It also helps you avoid strain and injuries. And don’t ignore the importance of a good night’s sleep. Aim for a routine that includes winding down from the day before getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep on most nights.

    Healthy Mind

    Manage stress: Learning a few reliable stress management techniques can be a game changer. Whether it’s slowing your pace, avoiding multitasking or taking regular breaks, managing stress can help you avoid headaches, loss of appetite, racing heartbeat and even burnout.

    future bright pension

    Make time for self-care: You’ve heard this before, but it’s very important to make time for ourselves. Even taking 10 minutes to unwind can have a powerful impact on mental wellness. If you could plan the perfect day, what would you do? Make a list of these activities and create space to incorporate them into your day whenever possible.

    Maintain social connections: It can be easy to isolate when you’re upset, but staying connected to others is essential for a healthy mind. Call a friend to catch up, volunteer, join a group or get together with family—these are all great ways to stay connected.

    Support the mind/body connection with this meditation

    Your mind and body are in constant conversation, and how you treat one often impacts the other. Try this easy one-minute meditation to quickly clear your thoughts and add a moment of relaxation to your day. While seated, place your hands gently at your sides or in your lap. Sit comfortably and keep your legs relaxed. Close your eyes and focus on a peaceful image in your mind. Take a deep breath for a count of 4. Hold this breath for 4 counts and then exhale with force for another 4 counts. Repeat this breathing sequence for one minute.

    Healthy Habits Daily Checklist

    • Drink water (the amount should be based on your weight, activity level and environment)
    • Move your body for 30 minutes
    • Eat fruits and vegetables at every meal
    • Practice self-care
    • Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep

    Brighter Day Smoothie Recipe

    Boost your vitamin intake with this blend of nutrition superstars, perfect to jumpstart your day or for a nutrient-filled snack anytime.

    Ingredients
    • 2 cups of leafy, dark greens like kale or spinach
    • 1 cup vitamin C-rich blueberries
    • 1 medium banana
    • cup of liquid (low-fat milk or yogurt, or plant-based milk or water)
    Directions

    Combine greens, blueberries, banana and liquid in a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Your future is full of possibilities with an 1199SEIU pension!

    Your future is full of possibilities with an 1199SEIU pension!

    Your future is full of possibilities with an 1199SEIU pension!

    It may be difficult to imagine where you’ll be in 10, 15 or even 20 years, but as an 1199SEIU member, you have the security of a defined benefit pension. This is a rare benefit, and it’s sometimes hard to appreciate what it means when you’re years away from retirement. But a defined monthly pension offers financial security, peace of mind and freedom when it’s time to retire.

    You can request a pension estimate every year to track how your benefit is growing. It’s easy to do. Taking control and gaining knowledge about your pension today ensures you’ll have more freedom tomorrow. And if you’re ready for retirement in the near future, now is the time to ask questions and figure out what your 1199SEIU pension means for you!

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    For more information, check out the pension retirement page.

    How to get your pension estimate

    As an 1199SEIU member, you can request a pension estimate, helping you plan for your future and enjoy your retirement. Start by logging into MyAccount. Once you’re logged in, go to the “My Pension” tab and choose “Request & Review Pension Estimate” from the dropdown menu. Then, click the “Request Pension Estimate” button and follow the on-screen instructions. That’s all there is to it.

    Remember, this is only an estimate—it’s not your final benefit. Please contact the Pension Department if you believe there is missing wage and/or employment history when you review your information.

    When you’re getting ready to retire

    Meet your Pension Counselor

    You can meet with a Pension Counselor in person, online or by phone.

    To learn more, visit the virtual pension counselor page or call (646) 473-8666.

    Apply for your pension

    Your Pension Counselor can help you complete your pension application, or you can do it online at your convenience through MyAccount.

    “The 1199SEIU Pension Funds made the experience of applying for my pension simple by letting me do it online. I thought it was going to be a long process, but it was as easy as 1-2-3!”

    Kathleen LaRose, recent retiree

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  • Get your 2026 Members’ Voices calendar today!

    Get your 2026 Members’ Voices calendar today!

    Get your 2026 Members’ Voices calendar today!

    Our Members’ Voices series continues to inspire 1199ers, so we are devoting the 2026 calendar to showcasing the stories of 12 more 1199SEIU members! These 1199ers have embarked on their own health journeys and are willing to share what they’ve learned to help motivate you in the coming year. You’ll also find important contact information and quick, at-a-glance overviews of the services and programs your Benefit Funds offer.

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  • Do you wish you knew how to improve your finances?

    Do you wish you knew how to improve your finances?

    Do you wish you knew how to improve your finances?

    Eliminate the guesswork by attending one of our upcoming online financial workshops.

    Upcoming Webinars:

    Keeping It Safe

    Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 6:00 pm

    Learn how to prepare for a financial emergency and how to access the types of insurance that are available, as well as how to protect yourself from identity theft.

    Banking Basics

    Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 6:00 pm

    In this webinar, you’ll learn how to bank safely, open accounts, monitor fees and make transactions.

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  • Become the future of New York healthcare

    Become the future of New York healthcare

    Become the future of New York healthcare

    Your journey with the Career Pathways Training Program

    Select education opportunities remain open for the following:

    • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
    • Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)
    • Medical Assistant
    • Pharmacy Technician
    • Community Health Worker (CHW)

    If you are interested in any of these five occupations, please select a school from the approved school list and contact them directly for program availability and enrollment.

    For Community Health Worker opportunities, click here.

    The Career Pathways Training Program continues to support all returning students.

    Please log in to your MyTEF account for updates and next steps.

    Enrollment Status

    New applications for all other programs of study are no longer being accepted. You may explore financial aid options through your school or college.

    If you are an 1199SEIU member, your regular education benefits through the Training and Employment Funds (TEF) remain in effect and can be accessed through your MyTEF account. To explore all TEF programs and services, visit the TEF Website.

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  • Child Care Corporation Celebrates 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala

    Child Care Corporation Celebrates 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala

    Child Care Corporation Celebrates 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala

    The 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation proudly celebrated its 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala on October 22 at Chelsea Piers’ Current. This year’s theme, “Bridges to the Future,” set the tone for an inspiring evening centered on community, commitment and the transformative impact of our child-care and youth-development programs.

    The Child Care Corporation was honored to recognize three distinguished leaders whose work continues to uplift children and working families: Marilyn A. Fraser, MD, CEO of the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health; Amalgamated Bank and its President, Priscilla Sims Brown; and Tomas Ramos, Founder of the Oyate Group. Their dedication reflects the very heart of our mission.

    Thanks to the tremendous generosity of this year’s supporters, the gala reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that working families, especially our healthcare heroes, have access to aff ordable, high-quality child care and youth opportunities. Together, over $300,000 was raised in support of these vital programs.

    Guests were treated to a brilliant musical performance by Blues Zhang and Angeline Kiang of The Juilliard School, and our Master of Ceremonies, Edric Robinson from News12 New York, guided the evening with warmth, humor and unmatched charisma.

    Among the night’s most meaningful moments were the heartfelt testimonials from families and alumni whose lives have been shaped by the Child Care Corporation programs. Guests heard from 1199SEIU members like Shante Hutchinson of Montefiore Medical Center, who shared how all three of her children attended the Future of America Learning Center in the Bronx and how the savings in child care was crucial to her family. Their experiences were a powerful reminder of why we gather each year to uplift families, expand opportunities and build pathways to brighter futures.

    To commemorate the final week of YMP this summer, the 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation hosted its annual YMP Closing Ceremony on Thursday, August 15, in the Martin Luther King Auditorium at our 1199SEIU Manhattan headquarters.

    We extend our deepest gratitude to Aetna, this year’s Corporate Sponsor, for its generous partnership and continued commitment to the families we serve. And to everyone who attended, donated or supported this year’s celebration: thank you. Together, we are strengthening families, investing in futures and truly building “Bridges to the Future.”

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  • GNY Retiree Health Benefits Overview

    GNY Retiree Health Benefits Overview

    GNY Retiree Health Benefits Overview

    It’s never too early to start thinking about your future. Organizing your finances and making sure you have reliable healthcare coverage are  important parts of retirement planning. Learn about the benefits available to you as a retiree and find out whether you are eligible to receive supplemental health coverage in these 2-part videos.

    More about your pension benefit.

  • GNY Pension Info Session

    GNY Pension Info Session

    GNY Pension Info Session

    It’s never too early to start thinking about your future. Organizing your finances and making sure you have reliable healthcare coverage are  important parts of retirement planning. Learn about the benefits available to you as a retiree and find out whether you are eligible to receive supplemental health coverage in these 2-part videos.

    More about your pension benefit.