THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, February 9, 1997 TAG: 9702070015
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 22 lines
After reading the Jan. 24 article related to the value of mammograms, I felt compelled to respond.
At 43 years of age, the last thing on my mind was battling breast cancer. Upon my doctor's advice, I went for a routine mammogram. The mammogram showed an area that could not be diagnosed without a biopsy, which was performed within days. The biopsy revealed that I had carcinoma. Within days, a modified radical mastectomy was performed, followed by six months of chemotherapy.
That was 2 1/2 years ago. I don't know where I would be today if my doctor had not recommended that mammogram. I am a firm believer in them. Please don't take the value of mammograms lightly. Talk to your doctor and other breast-cancer survivors if you have doubts. I am grateful for all the wonderful medical care I have received, but especially for that mammogram!
LINDA L. POWERS
Chesapeake, Jan. 25, 1997