“I never thought it would happen to me. But one mammogram changed everything.”
Like many women, Amy Rambo scheduled her annual mammogram at BSA Harrington Breast Center as part of her routine care. But in December 2024, that screening brought news she never imagined. While sitting in a restaurant with her husband, Amy opened her MyChart app and saw the words: invasive ductal carcinoma.
“I got the results just before Christmas. I was in shock and heartbroken, but my husband reminded me, ‘We will get through this together.’”
Why Screenings Are So Important
Amy had no symptoms — only her screening mammogram revealed her breast cancer. That early detection gave her more options for treatment and a better chance at recovery.
“If sharing my journey helps even one woman schedule her mammogram, then it’s worth it,” Amy said.
The American Cancer Society recommends women begin annual mammograms at age 40, or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer. Regular screenings can find cancer before it spreads, when it’s most treatable.
The Power of Support
From the moment Amy called the Breast Center, she says she never felt alone.
“The very next morning I called and said, ‘Please help me.’ I was immediately connected with a nurse navigator, who walked with me through every step. She explained my options, answered questions and made sure I understood everything. She was the extra set of eyes and ears I didn’t know I needed.”
Amy’s care team, from her surgeons and oncologists to the nurses and techs who cared for her after surgery, provided compassion and expertise at every turn. While the advanced technology at BSA Harrington Breast Center gave her confidence in her care, what stood out most to Amy was the compassion she felt throughout her journey.
“The care and support at BSA Harrington Breast Center go far beyond medical treatment,” Amy said. “From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re treated with compassion, respect and kindness. You’re not alone on this journey.”
Life After Diagnosis
Today, Amy is adjusting to life after surgery with a new perspective.
“I used to think, ‘It will never happen to me.’ But it did. Now, I see life differently. There are hard days, but I’m learning to give myself grace. I am deeply grateful for the love, prayers and support that carried me through.”
Her advice for others? “Find your circle of support—family, friends, faith community or others who have walked this path. Bring someone with you to appointments. Ask questions. Take notes. Advocate for yourself. You are stronger than you think.”
What You Should Know
- Support makes a difference. Family, friends and community resources play an important role in recovery, and our team is here to connect you with what you need.
- Screening saves lives. Don’t wait — schedule your yearly mammogram.
- You won’t be alone. At BSA Harrington Breast Center, you’ll have access to a compassionate team, nurse navigators and advanced technology every step of the way.
“One day, I hope that my story and journey will become someone else’s survival guide.”
– Amy Rambo
Schedule Your Mammogram Today
Don’t wait. Early detection saves lives.
Call 806-212-1905 or visit bsahs.org to schedule your mammogram at BSA Harrington Breast Center.