I was diagnosed with stage 1 right breast cancer in 2020. I have a history of very dense small breasts with a history of benign breast tumors and cysts in both breasts. In 2024 I had my yearly Diagnostic mammogram, of my left breast. A cancerous tumor was found. I was given a breast MRI for the first time in my life, to see the extent of the new cancer. It was stage 1, but it is a much worse, fast- growing type than in my right breast. I was told that if I had had a breast MRI in 2023 the cancer would have been found a whole year sooner. But it just isn't part their protocol. It enrages me.
More tumor cells were unleashed into my system during that time. If I had a little more money, I would have a no- contrast, MRI of my trunk area once a year. A person can negotiate a price. Private Open-MRI clinics are supposed to be the cheapest. They rather get your money than not be making any money for 45 minutes. My care is now is either my N.P. or I feel a localized lump on or near my mastectomy sites or nearby lymph nodes, OR I report to them when I have, basically, terminal signs: yellow skin because of liver cancer, pain in my spine because of bone cancer, pain in my lung and breathlessness because it has spread to my lungs. With an MRI once a year, maybe I could find it at stage 3. With the new blood test, RGCC test, which I would have to pay for also, I might have a fighting chance. Please anyone who can afford to pay out-of-pocket less than $2,000 a year, think about adding this to your care. And give input here. I Am Not Cancer Free. No one is, until there are vaccines. vacinecancercoalition.org