When Carol Deaver found a lump in her breast during a self-exam, she knew exactly what to do. She had a mammogram scheduled for the following month, but she knew it couldn't wait, so she contacted her gynecologist right away.
“It was unsettling and concerning from the time I found the lump until I got the results of the biopsy just because of the unknown and the uncertainty of what I might be facing,” Deaver said.
The worst part was waiting for the diagnosis. But thanks to quick and excellent care at CommonSpirit Health St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas, it was only a week from when she found the lump to confirming breast cancer.
“Even though I received a cancer diagnosis, it was early and small, and I immediately felt better about what was ahead,” Deaver said.
The Process of Breast Imaging and Diagnosis
Deaver, 64, an occupational therapist who also operates a family farm with her husband outside Garden City, said she got in quickly at St. Catherine Hospital for a mammogram and ultrasound on the same day.
“That in itself made me feel as though I was a priority and that my case was important to all involved,” she said.
St. Catherine offers same-day appointments, extended weekday hours, and weekend availability so that patients and doctors can move toward a diagnosis. The hospital has advanced breast imaging capabilities, including 3D mammography and Magseed technology, along with access to a fellowship-trained radiologist.
Deaver said everyone at St. Catherine was caring and helpful, including the mammographer and ultrasound technician, and the radiologist who joined her team for her biopsy.
“During all this, I did not experience a bit of pain or discomfort and felt very well taken care of, being treated with compassion and kindness, in addition to having a professional and capable staff ready to provide their services to get me on my way as quickly as possible to have a positive outcome,” she said.
What Was Next After Her Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Because Deaver contacted her doctor immediately after finding a lump, her cancer was detected early. Her treatment consisted of two lumpectomies and 33 rounds of radiation over about two months, split between appointments in Wichita and Garden City.
“I had no pain or discomfort at all, just lots of appointments,” she said. “It was a really easy road.”
Deaver has always believed in the importance of medical checkups and screenings. She’s been getting regular mammograms for more than 30 years due to her grandmother having breast cancer, though genetic testing later revealed she didn’t have a genetic component to her cancer.
She credited her good habits for her early diagnosis, which in turn led to successful treatment without much disruption to her life.
The Importance of Mammograms and Early Detection
When it comes to cancer, early detection is key to less disruptive treatment and more successful outcomes.
For any woman who might be putting off a mammogram due to anxiety, their busy life, or just because they don’t think they need one, Deaver said, “Just do it!”
“Don’t hesitate to check out anything that is a concern so that treatment, if needed, can begin swiftly with pain-free successful results!” she said. “My other recommendation is to put your trust in the staff at CommonSpirit in Garden City as they will have your back from the beginning and throughout your journey.”
