In the Fall of 2001, ten years ago, I was a 17 year old high school senior with normal teenage worries. Never once had it crossed my mind that I should be aware of my breast health. All that changed when I was catching an itch on the inside of my left breast. I felt a knot that I knew shouldn't have been there. I freaked out, told my mom, and off we were to the next available doctor's appointment. The doctor confirmed my discovery and sent me to a surgeon in Eagles Landing. They immediately scheduled me for a lumpectomy. A week after the lump removal surgery I went to get the results. Thankfully, the results were not life threatening. The lump was a calcified deposit that formed into a lump.
Fast forward three years; I am now 21 years old. Recently married and starting my new life as a wife. In the shower one day, I felt sore places all throughout my breasts. Naturally, I freaked and off I went to the doctor...again. She, too, confirmed my suspicions and sent me for a mammogram and ultrasound. The mammogram came back inconclusive and the ultrasound showed fibrous cysts. I was then diagnosed with fiber cystic breast disease. Again, not life threatening, but worrisome nonetheless.
So, fast forward again to last week. I am 27, mother to two beautiful babies, and wife to my high school sweetheart. Last week I woke up from a dream with shooting breast pains. I feel around and find what I believe to be lumps. I got a doctor's appointment for this past Monday. The doctor felt like it was not suspicious, but to be sure she sent me for an ultrasound. That leads me to today. I went to the Spivey Station on 138 in Jonesboro. Let me tell you this, that place is WONDERFUL. If you ever need the services of a women's center that specializes in breast health, this is the place. Top notch for sure. I got an ultrasound by the technician and she was so reassuring and informative. She immediately took my results to the doctor and he gave me the all clear. What a relief!!
I know what you're thinking...hypochondriac. Well, not really. I never go to the doctor. But I immediately freak out when it comes to my body and dealing with issues that can't be solved with over-the-counter medicines. The purpose of telling this story is this: YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO YOUNG. Breast health should be a concern for all women. Cancer doesn't know age, color, race or gender. Do your monthly self checks. One day that could save your life.
