They say that life is a journey.  I don’t know who “they” are, but I know it is true because I see that phrase so often on coasters, note cards and signs.  My journey started today when I found a lump in my breast while I was showering.  I have to tell you, it scared the bejeebies out of me.  I felt the lump and thought, “What is that?”, and then felt it again.  Everything stops.  Is this something to worry about?  Was this there before and I just didn’t feel it?  Is this real or am I over reacting?  Is it still there?  I feel again.  Yep, it is still there.  Crap.  When was my last mammogram?

Here is where I tell you that I have a secret weapon . . . my husband is a breast surgeon.  Over the years, I have noted the changes in my breast texture and location!  I have asked him on many occasions to check out a thickening or new texture.  All have been normal.  When I say that I don’t like it, he generally teases me with “Wait till you see what happens next.”  What??  So I determined long ago that I would be a fool not to take advantage of this great resource and have him do my breast exams for me for the past 30 years. 

Gene came home and that evening I asked him to check out the lump that I had found.  He examined me and asked when my next mammogram was due.  I told him I was 2 months past due, so he suggested I schedule one since it had been over a year since my last one.  He told me not to get too excited.