When talking with a friend about my breast cancer diagnosis, I commented “why not me…”
I had a wonderful support network, I was healthy, I exercised regularly, and I was conscious
of how my state of mind could shape my journey, I knew I would survive this. But let’s be
honest, it sucked. It was scary. No one wants to get that call “It’s cancer,” my world flipped
upside down and I got ready for battle.

I look back and I think if only I was more aware of what my breast density meant, I would
have pushed harder, sourced additional screening. How could I have a clear mammogram
5 months prior and be in this position now? I learned that my breast density of C masked cancerous cells in my mammogram.

My name is Carla and 2 months before my diagnosis (at age 48) I saw my doctor about
firmness I would experience around my monthly cycle. She did an exam, looked at my last
mammogram and all seemed well, until it wasn’t. I noticed a change in my nipple and my
gut dropped. Another visit and a very quick set of urgent appointments followed.

The technician who did my urgent screening mammogram got me into an ultrasound that
same morning. The ultrasound technician saw what the mammogram could not. The next
day the doctor doing the biopsy told me they suspected cancer, and my doctor confirmed
24 hours later: Stage 3.

2024 I had eight rounds of chemo every 2 weeks, followed by a double mastectomy, and an
intense course of radiation. I was able to do cold capping and although I wasn’t able to
make it to my daughter’s graduation ceremony, I was there after my last chemo treatment
for the graduation dinner to celebrate. She was so incredibly supportive as was my son,
both were so thoughtful and helpful. My husband was my rock, there for every
appointment, holding my hand as we waited for results like the bone scan (so hard to wait
for results, but thankfully clear!).

So now a year after my last radiation appointment, I sit here knowing I have raised this with
my network, and my dear friends talk about how they’ve talked to their friends who now
look more closely at their mammogram report to check breast density. Education is key,
awareness is key, and I’m not afraid to share my story as I know it will help others.

I went back to my family doctor and upon speaking more about the journey she checked all
her files to see who else in her practice had C & D densities, wishing supplemental
screening access was not limited in BC. So yes, why not me, because I will forever raise
awareness about dense breasts. I’ll be on hormone therapy for many years, but I thank my
lucky stars my diagnosis happened when it did and that the margins were clear following
my surgery. My life still got flipped upside down, my employer at the time didn’t walk the
talk of holding my position, but I’ve learned that sometimes when things come crashing
down, you’re meant to build them back up in a way that serves you even better.

My message to anyone reading: know your density, advocate for your rights, and send the DBC
advocacy letter today to increase access for supplemental screening for women with
dense breasts in BC.