It was exactly a year ago today that everything changed. Somewhere along  my journey, I decided that I would tell my story. And the one year anniversary just seemed like the right time.

So first, a little background. I tend to be a private person and I don’t love or desire to be in the spotlight. Therefore. talking to people about my problems is somewhat unnatural and uncomfortable to me. I’m also compartmentalize most aspects of my life. I keep everything  in its appropriate box until it’s time to take it out and deal with it. Maybe not the best way to handle things, but it usually works for me.

Looking back, the day was unremarkable. That’s how I try to plan all weekends, fitting in as much R&R as possible after a crazy work week. Mind you, I love my job but it tends to be insane. But this was the Saturday that I chose to schedule my yearly mammogram. Since I had just turned 41 two months before, it really should have been just routine.

I showed up at the Women’s Imaging Center and checked in with Colleen. Colleen is always there. In fact, I’m not convinced I have ever had to check in with anyone else besides Colleen. Insurance card and driver’s license in hand, Colleen attached an ID bracelet on my wrist. And I sat and waited to be called back. Not many pages into my book later, Maria called my name and I followed her into the changing area. Here’s your robe. Take everything off from the waist up, lock your clothes and purse in a locker, and don’t forget to grab the key. Come back out when you’re ready. The normal routine.

In the procedure room. Maria verifies my name and date of birth and we discuss my past history. But, that’s a story for a different day. Time to get down to business. First, the right side, then the left. Three images of each side. A little time in between each to change position and for Maria to make sure she had a clear image. It’s uncomfortable but not painful and it only lasts about five minutes. I thank Maria, return to the changing area, redress, put on some deodorant, and go to check out with Colleen. She cuts off the ID bracelet, I tell her to have a good day, and I’m on my merry way.

I left the office feeling good. See you next year, or so I thought…