Throughout most of my life I was a person who would limit my use of medical services and believed that dealing with issues using a natural approach was best. For example, with my second pregnancy I did not even have an ultrasound, and both of my childbirths were natural.
My life changed dramatically in 2013 when I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. My life goal evolved to ensuring I maintained my health so I could hopefully spend years with those I love. At the same time, I was immersed in a sea of medical assessments, research and ongoing treatments and monitoring.
Initially, I was fortunate to participate in a clinical trial drug treatment. It was important for me to “help my fellow sisters” through the clinical trial research and provide findings for the medical community. Being on a clinical trial required that I had quarterly monitoring, which included CT scans, EKGs (electrocardiograms), EEGs (electroencephalograms), and other testing. Even though I was diagnosed with a terminal illness, it became even more important to exercise due care in my decisions, since my health was already compromised. In my research of medical imaging devices, radiation from CT scans is shown to be significantly higher than x-rays, ultrasounds and MRIs.
CT scans were deemed the best option for monitoring my progress and treatment results. I was so delighted to find out that Saanich Peninsula Hospital now has one of the best CT scanners in Canada. With lower radiation exposure and superior imaging, I am so thankful that all of my scans are done at SPH – my community hospital. I am so thankful for this new scanner and the donor support for the community’s best interests and well-being.
Written by a grateful anonymous patient
