A surprise diagnosis at 44: Local woman urges routine mammograms
KATV’s Little Rock ARC | October 24, 2024
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — A Searcy mom is spreading a message to Arkansans to get the care they need this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“I was really surprised.” said Anne Eldridge, Breast Cancer Survivor. “I’m 44 years old, no family history.”
After a yearly mammogram, Anne Eldridge was given a life-changing diagnosis. She was told she had breast cancer.
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
“It was determined that I had invasive ductal carcinoma, grade 2. After that, I had an MRI, and they found another spot that was also the same kind of cancer.” she said.
Eldridge received care at the Breast Center at CARTI. There, they say early screenings are vital.
“We know for a fact that it has been proven early detection saves lives.” said Brooke Pryor, Vice President of Business Development at CARTI Breast Center.
Pryor recommends starting to test at 40 years old, and for some even earlier.
“Anywhere from women 40 and over who do not have a risk factor or family history at that time. Of course, for many women, they start before the age of forty.”
After a year of treatment and a double mastectomy, Eldridge is now in remission. She hopes her story will save lives.
“It doesn’t matter if you have family history or not—you need to prioritize your health and get a mammogram.” saidEldridge.CARTI is extending its hours during October and making Saturday morning appointments available in Russellville, North Little Rock, Little Rock, and Pine Bluff.
By Payton Dhooge and Isley Gooden
