Upon turning 40, as guidelines recommend, Margie went annually for a mammogram. Each report year after year came back, clear with no concerns. In August of 2017, she felt a lump in her left breast and proceeded to request a 3D diagnostic mammogram which, like the others, came back clear. She went on her merry way, relieved that everything was good.
Fast forward to February 2018. She was working out, eating clean, lost a few pounds, when she noticed a lump in her right breast, this time sore to the touch. After discussing her concerns with several of her medical peers, she ended up back at her local imaging center, receiving two additional 3D mammograms and one ultrasound. The radiologist reported that he “thought it was just dense breast tissue but wanted a biopsy just in case.” The following day she went for a biopsy, and the following week her worst fears were confirmed: She had Stage 2B breast cancer! The tumor measured 3.6cm and the cancer had already made its way into several of her lymph nodes. Her surgeon showed her the 3D mammograms from the week before and stated, “You see that clip (metal clip placed during biopsy)? That’s where your cancer is. You can’t see your cancer because you have dense breast tissue.
Trying to find your cancer on a mammogram is like trying to find cancer in a snow blizzard. It’s nearly impossible.” And impossible it was. Had she known this earlier, she could have elected further diagnostics, such as ultrasound or MRI. Breast density notification would have made her aware and allowed her to make choices about her personal self-care. Breast density notification could have helped her detect the cancer much earlier. However, Margie was not given that choice. Margie had to undergo 6 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, reconstruction, followed by 30 days of radiation and a hysterectomy. To date, she continues to take daily cancer preventative medication and fights the fight for others.
Margie and Margie’s Army passed a law, “Margie’s Law”, in the state of Georgia that give women the proper breast density notification on their mammogram report. Margie’s Army Foundation continue to advocate for women and give back within the community by supporting women and families fighting breast cancer!
Note from Margie Singleton, 2019:
I must admit, there are days I struggle with frustration and depression because I am not 100% back both physically and mentally, but continue to push through, taking all one day, one minute at a time. I am beyond grateful for Gods healing me of cancer, but the continued emotional long term rollercoaster cancer plays on a person is REAL! It takes constant prayer, guidance and strength from family and friends, daily!
With that, I am taking on 2019 in high gear! Hyper focused on staying healthy, getting back to life, loving my family and friends, and appreciating every day, every moment of life.
Asking for continued prayers of guidance, strength and healing, not only for myself but for everyone affected by this ugly disease! WAY too many lives have been lost and affected!
So much love,
Margie Singleton
#KnowledgeIsPower
#BreastDensityMatters
#Warrior
#MargiesLaw
