Did you laugh when you read the title? I did! But this subject is no laughing matter. Breast health is an incredibly serious issue—in fact, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. Like you, I know mammograms are important to early detection, and probably like many of you, I still haven’t been exactly excited by the prospect of getting a mammogram. It’s no wonder: mammograms have been compared to having a cold metal elevator door slam shut on your breasts and pushing the up button. Not my idea of a good time.
Let me tell you: yesterday, I had a mammogram. It was my second. And it was a great experience—comfortable, fast, radiation-free, and totally “non-contact.” It’s done with a new technology called an “infrared mammogram” and it’s officially become my breast friend, so much so that I had to tell you about it! Infrared mammograms work by measuring blood flow around the tissue; anomalies or higher blood flow can indicate early cancer cell growth. The amazing thing is that the infrared science can detect cancer up to eight YEARS before a traditional X-ray mammogram will pick up a tumor. That head start on treatment can be life saving, as breast cancer has an almost perfect 100% five-year survival rate when the disease is caught in its very earliest stages.
You can tell I learned a lot during the experience, including that the technology works on all women, even those who are less than ideal traditional mammography candidates—so whether you’re large or small, young or older, pregnant, nursing, even if you’ve had breast surgery before—infrared mammography is for you. It’s definitely for me, and I’m so glad I did it.
No more excuses, no more procrastinating, no more patients! Put on your pink ribbon and take a stand; even if infrared mammography isn’t available yet where you live, get a mammogram because it’s time to meet your new “breast friend”!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Time to Meet Your “Breast Friend”
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I love the card. What a great way to make something to show awareness about breast cancer!
ReplyDeleteWow. Thanks for sharing your experience. I have put my mammogram off for too long, because of my past experience. The cold elevator door going up is right on target.
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up...Just had the old traditional smashing last month-I'd much prefer this new technology!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this important message and info about this new technology. Your card is a gorgeous reminder for us all! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteJeanette - thank you for looking out for us & sharing your experience. I'll be looking for Infrared Mammograms in my area!
ReplyDeleteSee you in less than two weeks in CA!
An old fashioned mammogram tradition I heard from a scrapbook clubber was to get a group together for a morning of mammograms and then go out for pancakes (I kid you not) after wards.
ReplyDeleteIt is exciting that this tradition could be one based on technology from the "good old days".
Thanks, Jeanette.
Mary
My deepest appreciation to you for sharing this new Breast Friend.
ReplyDeleteI am only 35 and at 32 was affected by mysterious benign tumors that acquired an internal infection much disguised to others as mastitis. These unique infections nearly took my life twice. After 3 long and excruciating surgeries (recovery was the hardest) I learned that my condition is extremely rare and still remains a mystery for treatment.
I'm blessed as CTMH came into my life shortly after my 3rd surgery. Consequently I had not experienced any relapses for the last 2 years. I attribute this to the healing inspiration that is all encompassing in my connections and life with Close To My Heart.
However, very recently I've experienced a relapse in both breasts. Thanks to your awareness and sharing...I'm hopeful in diligently finding a place that does utilize this infrared mammography.
Thank you again so much from our hearts to yours!!!
I just had my 2nd mammogram in January, got a callback due to a "shadow". From there they scheduled a biopsy, which included another mamo and an ultrasound. Although the biopsy came back negative, they decided to remove the lump anyways, so I had a lumpectomy. All in all, it took 6 months, during which time, stress levels were very high. YOu just don't know how these things will turn out. Thankfully I'm fully recovered and normal with just a 1.5" scar. YOu just don't know how these things will turn out. So I will be looking into the infrared mammogram, but please don't put this off. My dr. said I was a "poster child" for the Ontario Breast Screening program that we have here in Ont. Canada. Thanks so much for speaking to this issue, Jeanette!
ReplyDeleteI soooo wish this would be available to me even as a 9 YEAR survivor!
ReplyDeleteI'd even go back to every other month instead of annually, gladly!
Thanks for the great card as a great reminder!
Love ya and see ya in a few!!!
Wow. Interesting. I haven't heard of this technology and I work in the medical field. Very good to know!!! And a great reminder. I hope it's more common by the time I need to have one.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of this technology. While I do the traditional mammogram every year, it sure would be nice to find an easier method! And, think of the possibilities for my daughter's generation. Beautiful card. I'm sure it'll be a lovely and gentle reminder to a loved woman to do what needs to be done yearly.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your experience, it's not so common here in the Netherlands.
ReplyDeleteThank you for bringing this up! I am thrilled with the new technology that is available for early detection. LOVE THE CARD!
ReplyDeletesee you in Long Beach
I just went for my physical on Friday at which they gave me my slip to schedule my mammogram. I will definately be asking about this new type as I've put off having my annual one for three years now! Thanks so much for passing on this information.
ReplyDeleteJeanette you made my day!!! I am small, at least that part of me, and they just smash me to point of fainting. It hurts so bad. I just know the traditional mamogram was designed by a man. I've always thought of the experience as being put in a vise grip since I guess that's how most men could understand the explanation!
ReplyDeleteAlthough, in my case, my hubby isn't the least bit handy so he wouldn't even know what one looks like. lol
Since I was already online I looked it up. I knew Indiana wouldn't be on the list but I thought LA would and I could just extend my leadership trip. But, they didn't have one listed. Surprisingly, there is one in what appears to be a small town in Ohio and within 3 hours of me. So, I'll be calling them since I'm due for one again.
Your card is fabulous. I love all the pinks too!
Please tell us where to find an imaging center near us....I, too, have been putting off my annual exam. I have been getting mammograms since I was 20...my body does not need any more radiation!
ReplyDeleteSuper cute card! I can appreciate it as a Mammographer and as someone who has a had a close family member with Breast Cancer (IDC grade4). Thanks for reminding everyone to get screened!! Conventional or IRI its a matter of personal choice, but ALWAYS remember to do your self-exam! That is where a HUGE majority of breast cancers are found.
ReplyDeleteAgain, great card!!!
Even thought my doctor told me I'm going to have my mammogram just after my 40's, I know how important it is as early prevention. I found the card simply gorgeous and your message so helpful. Just like a friend-to-friend sharing thing.
ReplyDeleteIt's a wonderful posting!