Heidi's story: Early detection. Peace of mind.
Almost two years ago I had a screening mammogram that resulted in an abnormal finding that led to a diagnostic mammogram,” said Heidi. “It was then suggested that I come back for a diagnostic mammogram every six months to monitor. As you can imagine, finding out that there was something concerning that needed to be watched closely was very stressful for me and caused ongoing worry. But every mammogram appointment I had at Grant Regional, the staff was always professional and courteous and gave me as much personal privacy as they could.”
“I want to encourage women that screening mammograms are a must,” Heidi continued. “Especially when there is a family history of breast cancer. It’s important to tell people that mammograms are only slightly uncomfortable and to not put it off. Having healthcare close to home is huge! It is extremely convenient, that is for sure. On top of that, every care provider I encountered with having mammograms and ultrasounds was very thorough with explanations. They were gentle, patient and seemed to genuinely care about me.”
“I won’t forget the special day when I learned that I could go back to screening mammograms annually!”
Traci Dorota, Registered Radiologic and Mammography Technologist at Grant Regional, got to deliver the good news. “I am just glad to hear I helped someone through something that was difficult for them,” said Traci. “Although I appreciate the thank you’s and knowing I helped someone, the patients are the reason I love my job and I do not expect thank you’s. Every patient deserves to have the best care and experience possible while they are here.”
“When you have a healthcare provider who shows concern during difficult times, yet also cheers you on during very good news,” said Heidi, “it makes it very easy to continue to come back to Grant Regional.”
Heidi appreciated the advanced diagnostic imaging that Grant Regional provides. She believes the advantages are many and have led to more accurate results. Also having MyChart allows receiving results quicker and helps her peace of mind. Heidi also appreciates her medical insurance covering the cost of her mammogram in Lancaster, close to home, with no need to travel.
Recently, Heidi was excited to share her experience with her coworkers at Amcor, using the moment as a perfect opportunity to encourage others to schedule mammograms without delay. She brought treats and invited colleagues to wear pink, to celebrate what Heidi calls an "important health win.”
“I’m even more thankful to Grant Regional given the experience my daughter had with a difficult labor and delivery five years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic. I was so impressed with the response and care given to my daughter, and I vividly recall a room full of providers who were ‘all hands-on deck.’ “Thank goodness for all the angels there that day, because now I have an amazing grandson who is my world. Grant Regional has been there for me and my family, and I’ll be forever grateful to our wonderful, local hospital.”
Breast cancer is the second-most diagnosed cancer among women, exceeded only by skin cancer. Statistics show that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer sometime in her life. It is recommended that women should have their first mammogram starting at the age of 40, or earlier depending on the patient's history and family history. Annual mammograms are recommended for women over 40. More than 70 percent of breast cancer occurs in women who have no identifiable risk factors.
Screening/annual mammograms can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you would like to schedule your mammogram, or have questions about this important breast health screening, please contact us at (608) 723-2143.