Take Time to Take Care of You!
By Dena Kowalski/Entrust Payroll Solutions
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Entrust Payroll Solutions would like to share a story with you to inspire and encourage you to take the time to take care of yourself and those around you.
During the late summer of 2012, I went to my routine doctor’s appointment. I was teaching elementary school at the time, so all my appointments took place during the summer months. My doctor looked through my chart and said, “Dena, I see that I ordered a mammogram for you last year. Where are your results?”
“I have been too busy to schedule an appointment,” was my weak reply. She immediately dragged me across the hall and told me that I wouldn’t be leaving until I had my mammogram completed. I waited, had the screening, and went on my merry way.
Two weeks later, my phone rang.
My very first mammogram left me with a diagnosis that no woman, husband, parent, or son is ready to hear from their wife, daughter, or mother. In one swift moment, our lives came crashing down. After the initial shock wore off, my survival instincts kicked in. I would do whatever it took to beat this.
Our lives changed that day. By the grace of God and with an exceptional team of surgeons, doctors, nurses, family, and friends, our family made it through the diagnosis and treatment of this terrifying disease. Ten years later, I am healthy and strong. While I am still under close observation, I am cancer free and feeling great!
My point, early detection is key. By the time I was diagnosed, the cancer had already spread to my lymph nodes. Had I waited another year to have my mammogram, this story would have had a different ending.
We all get busy but taking care of our health is something that cannot be put off. Scheduling and keeping a yearly mammogram appointment is crucial. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women this year. Early detection provides the patient with the best prognosis and treatment plan to survive this deadly disease.
So, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, make your appointment and keep it. Take time to take care of you!