Gabriela's Story

Gabriela shares her story to raise awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection and diagnosis.

My name is Gabriela. I am 41 years old and I am from Ecuador. I went to get my annual pap smear exam at Erie Clinic and I asked the doctor if I could get a referral to get my first mammogram because I am now in my 40's, which is the right age to have your first  mammogram. 

The clinic sent me to the Women Health Center at Swedish Hospital. The mammogram was a little uncomfortable but nothing that any women can’t tolerate. After a few days I got the results, stating I needed an ultrasound because my skin was too dense and they were not able to see everything. 

I went back to get my ultrasound and there was no pain at all. A couple days later I received a call letting me know that they found an abnormality and I needed to get a biopsy. However, due to coronavirus I had to wait. But I was appreciative that the Women’s Health Center took all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe during the procedure.

As my procedure was about to start I suffered a panic attack and had difficulty breathing. It frightened me but Linda, the breast health navigator came into the room and calmed me down, talked to me and explained how important it was to get my biopsy as soon as possible. 

Linda was really persistent and never quit on me, she called me after a couple of days to let me know that she had an available appointment. She answered all of my questions about the procedure. I finally went back and Linda was there to again provide great support. She even held my hand during the biopsy. The doctor that performed my biopsy was calm and she explained every step along the way. This time I was feeling calm and the biopsy was better than I expected.   

The best part was that my results were negative. This experience taught me that even when we have fears we have to do the right thing in order to take care of ourselves. We need to get a mammogram, especially when you turn 40 as recommended.

I know sometimes that financial issues and the lack of knowledge can be a barrier but there are places like Erie Clinic and the Women’s Health Center at Swedish Hospital that help women financially and personally. They also have a bilingual staff. I also qualified to get my biopsy 100% free. 

I learned that if we want to live and enjoy our lives, we should get our mammogram annually. 

To schedule a mammogram, request an appointment or call 773-878-6888. 

Published September 25, 2020