Meet Erin Gratsch

Program Coordinator for the Jewish Hospital Women’s Imaging Center

This is me at 45 yrs old. A fitness instructor for over 20 years, an accomplished marathon runner completing 40+ marathons (9X Boston Marathon finisher), USAT Olympic Triathlon national qualifier, and 2009 Louisville Ironman finisher. I was in the best shape of my life, but a month after this picture was taken, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. So, this is what breast cancer looks like?!?!

I had no family history (85% of women do not), no lumps, no symptoms, and I was negative for the breast cancer gene. A mammogram on a mobile mammography coach saved my life!

It is now my mission to help educate and save others through the work that I do.  Please get your mammogram. 

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS

The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and over have a mammogram every year.

Why should you get a mammogram if you are 40 or older?

-1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their life

-Breast cancer incidence and death rates generally increase with age

-Screening Mammography provides early detection, which is the best protection

-Most insurance companies consider screening preventative care and cover the cost 100%

-95% of new cases and 97% of breast cancer deaths occurred in women age 40 and older

Quick facts about your mammogram:

-The exam will take about 10-15 minutes, including signing consent forms.

-Please bring photo ID and insurance card with you.

-Do not wear deodorant or powder prior to your exam (if you forget, wipes are available).

-If you are uninsured or underinsured, don’t let that stop you! Financial aid is available by calling the number below.

-A report will be sent to your physician(s).

-If you have had a previous mammogram, prior films and/or reports will be obtained to make a comparison. It is very helpful if you know the name of the previous provider at the time of your appointment (and address, if possible, if the provider is out of state)

-Mammography CAN be done if you have implants (the appointment will take a little longer)

-Mammography CANNOT be done if:

-You do not have a doctor

-Are pregnant or currently breastfeeding (must have stopped 6 months prior)

-Had a breast cancer diagnosis < 10 years previous, or mastectomy < 5 years previous