by Tahnee Merideth
As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I find myself facing this issue in a way I never imagined—up close and personal. It all began on September 29th, 2024, when I randomly felt a lump in my breast. Trusting my instincts, I immediately called the doctor, who saw me right away on October 1st. It felt surreal to start Breast Cancer Awareness Month this way, but that’s life, isn’t it? It catches you off guard.
Initially, I didn’t think much of it, and even my doctor reassured me that it didn’t seem like much. However, she recommended a breast ultrasound and a diagnostic mammogram, which opened my eyes to something I hadn’t realized: Did you know that regular mammograms can miss cancer, especially if you have dense breasts? I didn’t know that until now. I’ve always stayed on top of my checkups, including a mammogram I had my last one in October 2023, and nothing seemed out of the ordinary then. But dense breast tissue can mask potential issues, and I was never informed that I should have been getting regular ultrasounds instead.
This is a key point I want to stress: if you have dense breasts, be aware that mammograms alone may not be enough. Ask your doctor about having an ultrasound instead, or at least in addition to your regular mammogram.
The next morning, after my ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram, I received an email that contained news no one wanted to hear—both tests showed a mass measuring 4 to 4.5 cm, highly suspicious of malignancy. My doctor soon confirmed what I feared: a 95% chance of cancer. She was compassionate and reassuring, explaining that treatments have advanced significantly, but still, the words were hard to hear.
Two days later, I underwent a biopsy, and on October 15, 2024, the official diagnosis came in: invasive ductal carcinoma. At the time of writing this, I don’t have the full picture yet. I’m still waiting for the hormone receptor tests to come back, and I’ll need an MRI and surgery to remove the mass. There are more tests ahead, and once I have all the results, my treatment plan will be determined. I’m praying it hasn’t spread, that it’s localized, and that I’ll only need some radiation treatments after surgery.
As I await more news, I’m holding on to hope for the best possible outcome, but I also feel a strong urge to raise awareness for others. If this story can help just one person, it will make a difference. If you have dense breasts, make sure to ask about ultrasounds as part of your routine screenings. Mammograms alone might not catch everything, as I’ve learned the hard way.
Breast cancer awareness is not just a phrase for me now—it’s a reality. I hope this serves as a reminder to everyone to stay proactive and vigilant with their health. Early detection is key, and it might save your life.
Let’s all do our part to spread awareness, take care of ourselves, and support each other through this journey.
Thank you for reading,
Tahnee Merideth
Broker/Owner
Boutique Property Management Group