Here we were a community of women, all needing support and no one could talk.  No words of encouragement or support.  I am generally very chatty but I felt a profound respect for those who needed to be inside themselves to get through the moment.  I couldn't even respond when my name was called.  I felt mute.  Isn't there something the hospitals can do to make the experience more supportive?  I don't really think having someone walk me into the dressing room is enough.  Music? Shoulder massage? A room for silence and a room to speak?  Someone in the room to engage with? I like hearing people's stories and if a woman wanted to share it, I'd like to listen.  Where is the human element?

I felt today gave me an opportunity to imagine what it might be like if I got a positive result.  How would I feel?  What would be my reaction?  I let me mind wonder to the unimaginable diagnosis of breast cancer and what it might mean to me.  I knew for sure I could never do it alone.   I say a big heartfelt thank you to those who have walked the path, both survivors and those past.  I can not truly imagine what it would mean.  Your work, commitment  to stop this epidemic has gotten me to this room today for my annual mammogram.