Trust the Process and Early Detection

 Here I am, just trusting the process. Next day to focus on is Monday, March 11th.

I was able to visit with some fellow team members yesterday, and one resounding message from all of them was the hope that I could make an impact on others getting the timely cancer screenings. These important screenings are needed to allow for early detection, so one may have the best chance for successful treatment.

 Did you know:

 Honing in on breast cancer specifically, with breast exam screenings by a primary care provider every 1-3 years and recommendation for mammograms starting at age 40 (unless other indications), it is very important to do monthly self-exams to ensure no changes are occurring. This is especially important in anyone under the age of 40. 

 Are we all guilty of putting these off? Absolutely! 

 Would I have been in a very different place with my treatment options and chance of survival had I waited two more years until age 40 to have a mammogram? You betcha.

 With triple positive invasive ductal carcinoma at a stage IIA and a grade 2 (see my previous post explaining these diagnoses) at my diagnosis on December 26, 2023, it is reasonable to say that it could have evolved to be easily a stage III if not stage IV, further decreasing my survival rate. I am grateful for my primary care provider and the early detection of my breast cancer.

 Here are some tips and tricks to be more diligent in performing timely self-exams:

 Here is a link to print a shower hanger from The Ohio State University, so you'll never forget!

TL;DR

• Next day of focus is Monday, March 11th.
• It is worth scrolling back up and looking at the early cancer screenings that can save your life.
• Print the shower hanger and commit to self-exams.