RESOURCES
YOU
How to advocate for yourself medically!!
- Step 1: remember you are to maker of your story
- Step 2: be educated on the topic - DO NOT be afraid to ask questions
- Step 3: be firm in your decision - only you know how your body feels
- Step 4: do not be afraid to ask for help (a social worker is a great resource) - it is okay to need someone in your corner during tough conversations
- Step 5: remember YOU ARE INCREDIBLE
HEALTHCARE
NC Breast and Cervical Cancer Medicaid (BCCCP): uninsured or underinsured
- Contact your local health department
- Ask your doctor about BCCCP referral
- Call NC Medicaid: 1-888-245-0179
Understanding Breast Cancer
Mental Healthcare
Psychology Today
Support Groups:
Join a Facebook Group!
Local In-Person Young Adult Group
NON-PROFITS
"1 of Us provides assistance that directly impacts the lives of patients with breast and other gynecological cancers."
Breast Cancer Research Foundation:
"...committed to achieving prevention and a cure for breast cancer."
"...committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community."
HOW TO SCHEDULE A MAMMOGRAM
Screening Imaging (without symptoms):
- Find a local imaging centerSearch: Breast imaging center near (your area).
- Have insurance information (if available) and date of last mammogram (if any).
- Day of imaging, arrive without deodorant or body lotions in/around armpit.
Diagnostic Imaging (with symptoms):
- Schedule with primary care or OBGYN Explain concerns and request referral to imaging, this will ensure all the correct imaging is taken.
- Day of imaging, arrive without deodorant or body lotions in/around armpit.
Ask if you have dense breast! If you have dense breast, talk to your provider about different types of imaging. Be aware of what your insurance will cover or how much it will cost out of pocket. Ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable and informed.
STAYING INFORMED
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1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer. Approximately 1% of cases are below the age of 30.
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Approximately 17% of cases are diagnosed with symptoms other than a palpable lump, and 20% of cases are reported asymptomatic and detected through mammogram.
In NC, individuals underinsured or uninsured eligible for a free mammograms must be 40+ !!!
- No one should delay care because of age or cost. Early detection saves lives, and access should reflect that reality.
About Me
Hey, I'm Sammie :). When I was a senior in high school (18) I noticed weight gain, pains in my left nipple around my cycle, and eventually found a lump the size of a grape. Due to its presentation and I was uninsured, I skipped the doctor. Shortly after my 19th birthday I couldn't take the pain anymore and scheduled an appointment. Two months later I finally saw an OBGYN. While she tried to stay calm, I could tell something was wrong. Things moved fast after that. I had tons of scans, biopsies, and new doctors everyday. June 26, 2024, with no family history or genetic predisposition, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Grade 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma at 19. By the time I made it to Chapel Hill it was August 2024, and I was told if I waited 2 more weeks this disease could have been fatal. Two years later I am restarting treatments for metastasis, but thriving. #besilly4eva
xoxo, Sammie