At South County Health, we know that patient experiences provide invaluable insights into the care we provide and the impact it has on people's lives. This month, we are honored to share Linda’s story. Through her journey, readers will learn about the importance of self-advocacy, the impact of timely follow-ups on breast cancer detection, and the compassionate care provided by our dedicated team.

Her story highlights the critical role of regular screenings and the support systems that make a difference during challenging times. Below is her powerful narrative, shared in her own words, detailing her journey from diagnosis to recovery.

Discovery & Diagnosis

“After my annual mammogram on November 2, 2023, at South County Health, I received a letter stating that my mammogram was normal. Attached to the letter was information that the state of RI has enacted a Breast Density Law [effective October 1, 2014] that requires mammography centers to notify women categorized as having dense breast tissue about their condition. The letter stated that my mammogram indicated that I have dense breast tissue and may benefit from supplementary screening tests, which may include a breast ultrasound screening, or a breast MRI, or both, depending on my individual risk factors. This report was also sent to my primary care physician.

Due to the holidays and other medical issues, I did not immediately follow up with the notification to contact my health care provider, as suggested in the letter. In March of 2024, I realized I had yet to act on this issue. I sent a request for an ultrasound order to my primary care physician through their portal. I received a response from the office asking why I was requesting the mammogram. I mentioned the letter about dense breasts that I received from the hospital and they ordered the mammogram.”

Treatment Journey

“My ultrasound technologist was Sarah Prentiss. Sarah said that she wanted to show the pictures to the radiologist to check on what she saw. The radiologist wanted me to have a mammogram of that breast to determine if the “very small spot” of which there was evidence on the ultrasound could be seen on the mammogram.

Sarah has a very gentle, compassionate demeanor that provided me with a sense of comfort. Her professional, warm personality gave me the assurance I was in a good place. After the mammogram, the radiology department sat with me and explained that it would be beneficial for me to have a biopsy of this area. This was when I realized I could have breast cancer.

They introduced me to the breast health navigator, Lania Rodgers, RN, dedicated to providing support, education, and guidance to patients diagnosed with breast cancer. She assured me she would be there to help guide and educate me through the process of the treatment plan as it progressed.”

"Having the expertise and support of South County Health was extremely comforting for a newly diagnosed patient." - Linda, patient.

Impact of Compassionate Care

“The biopsy was performed three days after the ultrasound and the outcome was breast cancer. In addition to the biopsy the radiologist inserted a “marker” in the area of the tumor. In the event that it was not malignant, there would be a marker in the area for comparison when I had future mammograms or ultrasound. The nurse navigator immediately scheduled an appointment with me to go over the pathology report and description of the type of tumor they found. She encouraged me to have a friend or family member come with me to hear what I was being told. Lania, with her warm, caring personality and her expertise, made it easier to understand the technical information. She provided me with a 3-ring binder with details from breast cancer basics, testing, cancer staging, surgery, pre op treatment, post op treatment decisions and much more. Most importantly she reviewed the pathology report which showed I had the most common type of breast cancer: ER positive, PR positive and HER2 negative, and the tumor was very small. She applauded me for actively pursuing the additional diagnostic testing. Thus, my diagnosis and surgical intervention turned out to be the best possible outcome of what could have been a less optimistic outcome had I waited for my next mammogram. Because the tumor was so small and I had dense breasts, I could not feel it and it could not be seen on a mammogram.”

Support System

“Because I live alone, during treatment I was dependent on friends and the only family members who live about an hour from me. However South County Health provided me with every detail that I needed to prepare for my surgical procedure (a lumpectomy). They made themselves available by phone and in person. This, of course, made me feel so cared for.”

Message to Others

“I have tried to communicate to everyone with whom I have been in contact since this diagnosis to advocate for themselves. If they have any reason to believe that additional testing might help to prevent them from further progression of a disease that might impact them negatively then pursue this with your provider.

I also encourage all women to carefully read reports of diagnostic testing. I’ve also learned it is important to understand your genetic background as it relates to breast cancer.

Hearing you have breast cancer is initially gut wrenching for most patients. Having the expertise and support of South County Health was extremely comforting for a newly diagnosed patient. From the initial awareness while getting my ultrasound, then the biopsy, and ultimately the lumpectomy, which will be followed with a short stint of radiation, the communication has been exemplary.”

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the U.S. Annual mammography screening, starting at age 40, reduces breast cancer mortality in women of average risk.

Self-breast exams should be done every month, if you feel something, say something, Breast Cancer does not discriminate. If you have family history or symptoms reach out to your provider to request a screening mammography, especially if you have dense breasts. Whatever your breast health journey, South County Health is here to support and care for you along the way.

Call today to schedule your annual mammogram: 401-788-1486.