I try to look at things with a sense of gratitude in uneasy situations such as a mammogram. I mean let's face it, no one gets excited about having any part of their body, especially one so confidential, the main object of an art class!
The process to get an appointment scheduled for someone under 40 was admittedly too long. It took more than 3-months, at least 6 calls from me to the facility, additional calls and referrals from my physicians office, a faxed referral from myself before I was scheduled with an appointment.
Every person I spoke to was kind and professional but June must've heard the unyielding frustration in my voice and was determined to right the situation and she did! I was so appreciative of her being the only one to execute tasks resulting in a proper outcome (an appointment!). I was actually scheduled for a mammogram and ultrasound due to my diagnosis.
You're instructed to wear a 2 piece outfit and NO deodorant, lotion or perfume. Terrific! The day we'd need deodorant most we can't use it, the day we'd need perfume to mask the absence of deodorant, can't use that either. All for good reason and a plus for the face-mask requirement!
Parking (free) is on Artesian St. though the office address is on S. Beretania. The elevators from the parking garage take you directly to the office which is pleasant, clean and spacious. If you're someone that gets cold easily, bring a jacket as the office must maintain a specific temperature for the machines.
I had concerns about accommodations as a wheelchair dependent person but they assured me the mammogram could be conducted from my chair. At my appointment they actually brought in another comfy chair, similar to ones you'd find in a salon that was height adjustable.
A robe is provided to cover your bits only to be uncovered 2 minutes later and then your breasts are maneuvered like clay on a dysfunctional pottery wheel! Lots of pulling, twisting and mashing with instructions like head this way, head that way, hold with this hand, hold here, hold there, breathe, don't breathe. The literal pressure to get things right!
The doctor reviews the images while you wait for their findings in a separate room. Because I was also having an ultrasound, I was taken to another area of the office for that procedure and met with the doctor upon completion.
The people I encountered, especially after the mammogram were suspiciously (to me) gentle and friendly. So of course my mind immediately began jumping to conclusions and figuring me to have the worst. Nope. None of that, they were just as they were. Mustn't be easy to deliver news or share space with someone that receives crushing news so for their warmth, I am grateful.
I did have slight pain and bruising but still not a horrible experience and I know what to expect for next time. Don't forget (like me), to grab a rose on your way out! Encourage your loved ones to get screenings at THEIR regular intervals, even if it means showing a vulnerable side of yourself and letting them know you want them around as long as possible.
I'll mention a few stats about breast cancer to end my review. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. 1 in 1,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. A lack of mutation in the BRCA gene does not safeguard you from breast cancer, in fact, 8 out of 9 women diagnosed have no family history of breast cancer. Early detection is key to greater treatment options thus improving survival rate. read more