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Mary’s Story: Early Detection is Key

Mary’s Story: Early Detection is Key

Courtesy of King’s Daughters Medical Center 


Mary Caudill didn’t have a family history of breast cancer and never had an abnormal mammogram. She also had a job change—all of which made her decide to put off her annual screening for two years. “I didn't see the need to get a screening. Was I wrong? Yes,” said Caudill.

  It wasn’t until Caudill began working as a surgery scheduler at UK King’s Daughters Breast Health Specialists that she decided it was time to schedule her mammogram. Following her screening, Caudill was called back in for additional imaging.

  “[That] led to a biopsy, which led to the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. It was very early, and it was diagnosed as a stage one,” said Caudill. Caudill chose to have a double mastectomy without reconstruction and did not require chemotherapy or radiation treatments. She has now been cancer-free for three years and will continue to be on hormone therapy through 2028.

  Caudill uses her story to comfort patients as they go through the diagnosis and treatment process. “Being a cancer patient myself, I'm able to answer some questions. I can help with their anxiety, kind of calm them, and I'm there to help them through the journey because I've been there,” she said. “Once you begin the journey, you have literally a huge family because we’re all in this together.”

  King’s Daughters oncology team offers local, comprehensive care for breast cancer. Following screening, the team is here to care for patients through each step of their journey. This team includes breast surgeon M. Katherine Hughes, M.D.; nurse navigator Bethany Gentry, RN, OCN; and nurse practitioner Eva Joseph, APRN, who guides patients through genetic cancer risk assessment.

Dr. Hughes is the region’s only fellowship-trained breast surgeon. She specializes in the treatment of breast cancer using new and emerging surgical therapies, including localized partial mastectomy; techniques designed to preserve the contour of the breast; and hidden incisions.

  Gentry offers individualized assistance to patients, families, and caregivers to help overcome barriers to care. In addition, she provides education and resources to help patients and families make informed decisions and ensure they have timely access to quality health and psychosocial care throughout all phases of cancer treatment.

  Joseph advises patients on cancer screening and early detection options; cancer prevention and risk reduction; diagnostic and treatment options; and how to talk with family members about inherited cancer risk. Genetic cancer risk assessment includes a thorough review of an individual’s family and personal history; DNA testing; and evaluation of DNA test results.

  Caudill urges women to not put off their annual screening mammogram. “Early detection is key. Honestly, it can save your life. It did mine,” she said. “Mine was found extremely early. I had surgery and that was it. Cancer did not take over my life. I was able to put it behind me and move on.”

  To schedule a mammogram, call (606) 408-1111. A physician referral is not required for screening mammography.

 

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The Ashland Beacon’s owners, Philip and Lora Stewart, Kimberly Smith, and Jason Smith, established The Greater Ashland Beacon in 2011 and over the years the Beacon has grown into what you see now… a feel-good, weekly newspaper that brings high quality news about local events, youth sports, and inspiring people that are important to you. The Greater Ashland Beacon prides itself in maintaining a close relationship with the community and love nothing more than to see businesses, youth, and civic organizations in the surrounding areas of Boyd and Greenup counties thrive. 

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