Breast Cancer Doesn’t Just Happen in October
November is here and all the of the celebrations of pink and honoring our survivors and creating awareness have ended. Getting a mammogram was fresh on everyone’s mind. The importance of early detection and screening. The personal stories of those who have fought a battle with this dreaded disease. All these things were at the forefront of our view and on our minds in a very strong way.
All through the month of October we presented articles that educated on the importance of early screening and detection. These articles were from the prospective of a doctor, a mammography technologist and a nurse who all navigate patients through their needed screenings and if diagnosed, through their necessary treatments. Reasons such as “I have no family history”, “I don’t have time” and
“I don’t feel anything” were all dispelled and the importance of routine screening reiterated for all women aged 40 and over. Also, it was presented that women who are at an increased risk need to start these screenings earlier.
The question is, what are we going to do with all this information now that October is over? Did it cause any of us who had previously failed to get our mammogram to call and make that appointment? Did it incite a determination to be consistent with the necessary screenings, so that we can stay healthy for the ones we love and avoid unnecessary treatments with early detection? Did it provoke us to get the word out and make sure all of mothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, friends are getting their necessary screenings? Nothing is worse than the regret on the face of someone who is being diagnosed with advanced breast cancer (remember we can generally see something on a mammogram at least 2 years before a lump would be felt).
Since breast cancer doesn’t only happen in October…..let’s keep breast cancer awareness alive all year long. If we meant to get a mammogram in October and somehow failed to carry that plan through, let’s go ahead and make that appointment. If we know someone who is not getting their screenings because they are anxious about what might be found, let’s encourage them to be brave and get the screenings that they need. If we know someone who is not getting their mammogram because they are uninsured or have a high copay or deductible, let’s inform them about Pink the Basin funding that can help in these situations.
We can schedule your mammogram at 432-221-2300. If more information is needed about scheduling a mammogram and other appropriate testing or about Pink the Basin funding, feel free to call me at 432-221-1189.
Let’s keep breast cancer awareness alive all year long.