Thankful

Today I spent fifteen minutes in a room full of women I did not know. We were all dressed in white terry cloth robes. Spa day? Nope. Second guess?

Yes. I got a mammogram today. A follow-up mammogram because six months ago my routine checkup showed a shadow. A second mammogram at that time showed "dense tissue". The radiologist wasn't concerned enough to order an ultrasound or biopsy but suggested checking the spot again in six months. I am thankful to say the shadow is unchanged and the radiologist said I could go back to routine annual screenings.

Elisabeth Esther shares today she is facing a mammogram tomorrow for some lumps in her breasts. I am praying for her, as I prayed for all the woman I shared the waiting room with today. Who knew how many were there for routine annual screenings, follow-ups, or more? One older woman to my left wore a pink Susan B. Komen foundation bracelet and I wondered if she was a breast cancer survivor.

For nearly twenty years after my Mom's death from esophageal cancer, I had an irrational fear of cancer. Every lump, cough, difficulty swallowing, or weight loss (even while dieting, now THAT is irrational!)caused uneasiness and worry. I can't say exactly what brought me peace but about ten years ago I quit worrying about cancer. Now, I am not claiming any kind of immunity or victory from it. I simply don't fear I am somehow marked and destined to get it.

My prayers go out constantly to those with cancer and those with loved ones with cancer.

Know what else? I really don't ever mind the squishing of the mammograms. I always say my breasts are so flexible from three years of nursing two babies that they don't mind being flipped and flopped and flattened like pancakes.

Blessings,

Sandy