I have a strict "no friends at work" policy, but when I met Stacy, I knew "she was my people."
I can't explain it, but her aura put me at ease, like a warm hug on a chilly Monday morning. I didn't feel the need to code-switch or do anything except be the most authentic version of myself. Before I knew it, the walls I had carefully built around me started to crumble, and there we were, asking each other questions about race, discussing motherhood, and being each other’s professional and personal sounding board.
But then came the day when Stacy's energy seemed off. It is hard to explain, but she wasn’t very “Stacy-like.” I didn’t want to pry, but I felt confident she would talk to me if she needed my support. And that's when the plot twist hit – a stage three breast cancer diagnosis just weeks after she turned the fabulous 4-0.
As I dived into the rabbit hole of breast cancer statistics, reality hit harder than a Monday deadline. Why are we still stuck on the outdated rulebook of mammograms at 40 when the numbers scream a different story?
More than 1,000 women under 40 lose their battle with breast cancer every year. And don't get me started on the disparities Black women face in diagnosis and survival rates. It's clear we need to rethink this screening game plan.
But amidst the storm, Stacy emerged as a fearless warrior who turned her battle into a beacon of hope on Instagram, radiating positivity like a neon sign on a dark night.
Her courage lit a spark in me, and she encouraged me to get my first mammogram – and surprise, surprise, it wasn't as terrifying as those horror stories made it out to be.
So, in Stacy's honor and spirit of spreading love and awareness, here are five takeaways from my first mammogram experience!
Mammograms suck, but they aren’t as bad as getting an IUD or a cavity filled. Alright, let's face it: mammograms may not earn a spot on the list of your favorite things, but believe me when I say they're not as heart-stopping as getting a cavity filled or the high drama of an IUD insertion! Sure, there’s pressure and discomfort for a few seconds, but it’s nothing a seasoned gyno-goer can't handle!
Request 3D imaging versus the 2D! Opt for the advanced 3D mammogram over the traditional 2D option if available. With technological advancements in breast imaging, this method provides a clearer and more detailed view of the breast tissue, reducing the likelihood of needing additional follow-up imaging and enhancing the early detection of breast cancer.
The appointment itself is quick! The mammogram appointment is generally a quick and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what typically occurs during the exam: First, you will be asked to change into a gown provided by the facility. A trained mammogram technologist will then assist you in positioning one breast at a time on the specialized X-ray machine. The technologist will gently compress your breast for a few seconds to capture the necessary X-ray images. This process will be repeated for each breast, typically two to three times per breast. The entire imaging procedure usually lasts around five minutes. Once the imaging is complete, you can get dressed and continue with your day.
Don’t freak out if you are called back for more imaging. Getting a call back after a mammogram is common, especially for first-timers. Just like in many areas of life, breast imaging may not always provide crystal-clear results. Upon receiving such a call, it's essential to remember that it doesn't automatically indicate a serious issue. Often, a call back is precautionary, aiming to clarify specific areas seen in the images.
In my instance, the healthcare provider reassured me that the call back was a standard part of the process and not necessarily a cause for immediate concern. While the idea of returning for additional imaging may be unsettling, it's crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions right away. Remember, a callback is a proactive step healthcare professionals take to ensure thorough and accurate results. Stay calm and trust in the expertise of your healthcare team during this follow-up phase.
5. It provides peace of mind.
It is indeed a crucial fact that early detection is key in effectively treating health concerns, including breast cancer. The relief you experience upon the results of your first mammogram highlights the importance of regular screenings. Regular mammograms not only aid in early detection but also provide peace of mind in knowing that proactive steps are being taken to safeguard your health.
And so, as we wrap up this adventure into the world of mammograms and empowerment, let's raise our glasses filled with pink lemonade to warriors like Stacy!
Here's to rewriting the rules, smashing stereotypes, and standing strong together... to spreading awareness and navigating the twists and turns of life with laughter and love!
SHINE ON! (as Stacy reminds us of every day on her IG page).
🌟🍋💖
