Just Sayin’

The C word. If I’m being 100 percent transparent, it’s the scariest word in my vocabulary. It’s something I fear. It’s something that has affected several of my family members and friends.

It’s something I pray I never personally have to face. But, one thing I do know is that in many cases, it’s something that can be handled and handled well with early detection.      

At the suggestion of my OBGYN, I had a baseline mammogram in my mid-30s. Everything looked good for a few years. Then, at one appointment the doctor spotted something a little unusual. After further testing, I was given the “all clear.” That was a terrifying waiting period. My OB reminded me that because of my early and regular testing, hopefully if it was “something” it would have been detected very early and that’s a good thing.  

Each year as my annual mammogram appointment approaches, I get incredibly nervous. All of the what-ifs cross my mind. I really do understand women who let fear get the best of them and just skip the appointment. I’ve wanted to cancel many times. But I hope if you’re reading this and you either a) haven’t gone for yours or b) maybe you’re contemplating not showing up for your scheduled appointment that’s on the calendar, that you GO. 

While neither you nor I can predict the outcome for either of us, remember what my doctor told me. By getting tested annually, early detection is possible, and that is not only a good thing—it could be the thing that saves our lives. Faith over fear. ■

Written by Q104 personality: Jenny Matthews

Jenny Matthews was on the air at Mix 93.3 for 15 years and in 2019 moved to Q104 to co-host The Morning Drive with Mike Kellar + Jenny Matthews, 6:00 to 10:00 a.m., Monday through Friday. Check out her podcast, Real Life with Jenny Matthews, follow along with her blog and connect at jennymatthewsonair.com.