Betsy Chapin (10-1)

To the editor,

Mammograms save lives. At age 47, it has saved mine. Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I listen to the public service announcements about breast self-examination and mammography, like it is my mom speaking to me. I have diligently paid attention and have received annual mammograms.

I never expected to get the call that my mammogram looked suspicious. Since that call in June, my life had changed forever and I became absorbed in educating myself after my biopsy came back positive. I quickly immersed myself in every book the library had on breast cancer to understand my diagnosis and the treatment of this nasty beast inside my body. I knew major strides have been made due to money being poured into breast cancer research from the fundraisers people participate in around the world. As a result countless women have participated in clinical trials, researchers are constantly working on new treatments, with fewer side effects, so women can live longer and have a better quality of life while undergoing treatment.

In the last three months I have gotten nothing but exceptional care right here in Laconia. Starting with the mammography technician, Eileen Hodge, Drs. Adrienne Greenlaw and Michael Dowe at the LRGH Women’s Imaging center, and Ginny Witkin, Breast Health Educator. Ginny counseled me on every test and educated me on breast cancer. Over the course of many hospital appointments, she seemed to appear at my lowest moments, angel-like and answered all my questions on recovery, chemotherapy, and hair loss as these were my major concerns.

I have gotten wonderful care from my surgeon, Dr. Alan Awrich. He was the one to deliver the bad news after my biopsy, to discuss the surgical options, and to remove the cancer. What meant the most to me was he spent time with me, he cared about how I was doing and he helped me tremendously with what I was about to face. In the midst of my diagnosis, I had a routine annual check-up with nurse practitioner Jan Rowley at the new Caring for Women Clinic. I went, but all I wanted was to talk about my breast cancer and that’s what we did for the next 30 minutes after my exam. She gave me strength in her advice, empowered me to stay strong and gave me confidence in that I would make the right decisions for myself.

After surgery, I was sent to Dr. Charles Catcher in Oncology at LRGH. After he offered a choice in treatment, which included participating in a clinical trial, he asked if I wanted a second opinion. Of course I wanted a second opinion as chemotherapy and radiation were recommended and I wanted to know if any of the bigger hospitals could offer me any treatment not offered here. He set up an appointment at Dana Farber, the best cancer hospital in New England. After traveling to Boston, I learned that I could get the same care here in Laconia except in addition it came with the personal attention that was not present at my Dana Farber appointment. Now after receiving care from the oncology nurses, I know my decision to stay at LRGH was the best choice.

As I write, my hair is falling as are the autumn leaves, but I am at peace now thanks to all the doctors, nurses, my family, and friends, who are taking care of me. I know I will be a survivor. It is the season of color. Leaves are turning and pink ribbons adorn cars, store windows and lapels. No one wants to get the news of a suspicious finding on their mammogram. But believe me, if it is to be, the sooner you get that news the better are your choices, chances, and the lives of not only you, but those around you. Listen to the public service announcements on mammography and breast self-examination. Mammograms save lives.

Betsy Chapin

Gilford