UPDATE: A powerful account from Perth mother Sarah Crawford has ignited urgent conversations about breast cancer awareness and early detection. Just days after discovering a lump in her left breast, Crawford received a diagnosis of 18mm malignant invasive ductal carcinoma, highlighting the need for vigilance in personal health.
Crawford found the lump three weeks ago while preparing for a family holiday. “Oh sh**,” was her immediate reaction, but she chose to focus on her trip instead of her health concerns. Upon returning to Perth, a quick visit to her GP led to a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy the very next day. She recalls, “My busy schedule suddenly cleared,” as the reality of cancer set in.
The diagnosis transformed her life overnight. Crawford and her partner, Ben, faced the gut-wrenching reality of cancer, confronting fears and seeking information about survival rates, which for Stage 2 breast cancer are over 90 percent after five years. “I have just discovered I have cancer,” she told a friend, who offered support and reassurance based on her own family’s experience with the disease.
Crawford’s journey continued as she consulted with a surgeon who recommended a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy, presenting a glimmer of hope amid the turmoil. “The breast will look slightly smaller and higher,” the surgeon explained, offering a sense of normalcy in a surreal situation. As she prepared for surgery, she had to navigate how to explain her situation to her young children without instilling fear.
The impact of her diagnosis extended beyond her immediate family, revealing broader societal issues regarding cancer awareness. Crawford’s oncologist emphasized that many patients neglect early symptoms, often due to fear or financial concerns. “Some people just bury their heads in the sand,” she stated, a reminder of the importance of regular screenings.
With October 2023 marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Crawford’s story underscores the critical message: early detection saves lives. In Western Australia, free breast cancer screening is available for women aged 40 and over, a resource that could make a significant difference in outcomes.
Two weeks post-surgery, Crawford received promising news that the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes. “The cancer was gone,” she shared, allowing for a breath of relief, yet the fear of recurrence lingers. With a 10 percent chance of return over the next 15 years, she grapples with the reality that cancer’s shadow remains.
Crawford’s experience serves as a rallying cry for women everywhere to prioritize their health amidst busy lives. “A lump is a priority,” she insists. The message is clear: don’t let life’s chaos overshadow the need for regular health checks.
For those in Western Australia, BreastScreen WA offers free mammograms for women over 40 with no breast symptoms. Appointments can be made online or by calling 13 20 50. As Crawford’s journey illustrates, taking action now can lead to healthier futures for countless women.
This urgent reminder resonates more than ever—early detection is key. Share this story to raise awareness and encourage others to prioritize their health today.
