I have had exactly two mammograms - one last year after I'd turned 40 and I squeezed (ha) one in this year, before I am potentially disallowed permission to look after my own body too often. So I am not sure what to make of this letter, sent ONE DAY after this year's appointment on the day after Thanksgiving:
Dear Ms. S,
In order to complete your recent breast imaging examination, we would like to perform additional evaluation studies. Blah blah blah, blahblah blah call Vancouver Radiologists blahbedyblah blah discuss the next steps.
Blah blah insurance blah blah. Blahblahblah annual deductibles and/or co-pays. Blah blahblah questions or concerns blah blah blahblah blah.
The prelimiminary results of this procedure have been communicated to your referring physician.
Sincerely,
Electronically signed by So and So, MD
_____________________________________
I love my breasts, and I love being around my family & friends. I don't love the idea of losing my breasts - and that is not because I am vain (I don't think?) or believe a woman is remotely incomplete without them; even though I am loathe to show cleavage, I simply enjoy dressing them up now & again and think they make for a pleasant silhouette on my short-girl frame - plus (most significantly) I abhor the idea of spending hours away from my people & classroom to deal with various tests and treatments. [Part of that is because I am freakishly OCD about managing my house & calendar and because I am ill-prepared for a substitute to take over my classes, but MAINLY I just want to be doing more fun & inspiring things with those I love.] And so I am feeling nauseated about this stupid notice.
Right now I welcome any experienced insight regarding this type of letter as well as supportive ju-ju sent in my general direction. And I want every woman of a certain age to make that appointment. I promise it's not so bad, and remember - I am the poster child for Pain Weenies.
