I lost my maternal grandmother and a maternal aunt to breast cancer. I was devistated to find out my mother also was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999 and passed away in 2005. I had already had 2 benign lumps removed, one at 35 yrs old and the other at 40 yrs old. When I was 45, I felt a small lump in my right breast. I had just had my "routine" mammogram in November 2006 and this was April 2007. I went for another mammogram and an ultrasound and the doctor suggested a biopsy. My lump was cancer. My cancer was only 2.5 cm, very small. Due to my family history, I chose to have bilateral mastectomies with reconstruction. The doctors tell me my chances of the cancer coming back are very small, but I continue to see my doctors every 6 months. I have 2 daughters and 2 grandaughters. I encourage my daughters to do self exams, and my oldest daughter gets regular mammograms (my youngest is only 15). Remember, early detection saves lives.

Suzanne Bryan
Newnan, GA