Dear editor,

October is National Breast Caner Awareness Month.

I would like to encourage all ladies to have a mammogram.

In October 2012, I went for my annual check-up and I was called back for a second mammogram and ultrasound.

After a needle biopsy, I was diagnosed with breast cancer on Dec. 5, 2012.

My cancer was contained to one breast, was small and in the very early stages.

I had a lumpectomy and radiation treatments.

Because the cancer was fast growing, I underwent chemo treatments.

Today, nine months later, I am cancer free. Daily medication helps the odds that the cancer will not return.

Early detection is key. Pick up the phone now and make an appointment for your mammogram.

 

Sheila Haigler, Maplesville