Helen's Story
Helen, a breast cancer survivor, shares her story to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and diagnosis.
The Jack and Mayora Rosenberg Women's Health Center (WHC) at Swedish Hospital is not only beautiful, but comfortable as well. A couple of years ago I had a conversation with another lady at the WHC and she said her doctor did not feel it was necessary for her to continue with mammograms at this stage in her life.
I later talked with my doctor Dr. Stan Bryjak about whether or not I should continue having them. He advised me to continue. I feel he is a wonderful doctor and I trust him completely.
In 2018 I was told my mammogram needed further testing in 6 months. I went back for my next mammogram in April 2019, but I still felt there was nothing wrong. This time there were abnormal findings in both the mammogram and the ultrasound. I was scheduled for a biopsy which was positive for cancer.
It suddenly became very real to me that I had a problem when they introduced me to a staff member and she told me what was ahead for me: surgery. But each step along the way I was made aware of the procedures they were going to perform. I was given an appointment with Linda Rowan who had a notebook for me explaining exactly what was going on in my body and more briefing on what was going to happen in the future.
Cancer is a very frightening word, but because of the amazing staff at Swedish Hospital I never felt I was alone through anything. I felt that each person was there because they cared: from the receptionists, doctors, aides, technicians, Linda Rowan—who prayed the most beautiful prayer for me—and the transporter who wheeled me from one place to the other in the hospital.
I am so thankful that I followed my doctor’s advice and continued to have mammograms even in my seventies. They found my cancer early. Avoiding mammograms is not good. There is no protection from cancer just because you don't know it’s there. Having a yearly mammogram may save your life.
To schedule a mammogram, request an appointment or call 773-878-6888.
Published October 1, 2019
