The Power of Choice: One Woman’s Breast Health Journey

Anna Jaques Hospital Breast Care Center

Nancy Jones of Salisbury will never forget December 4, 2015 at 12:04. “Everything froze – my thoughts, my emotions. I felt like I was watching a movie.”

Doctor: “How are you doing?”  

Nancy: “You tell me.”

Doctor:  “Nancy, we found cancer.”

Nancy was talking to Peter Hartmann, MD, FACS, Medical Director of the Gerrish Breast Care Center at Anna Jaques Hospital, which is affiliated with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital.

“The world just literally stopped on its axis. It was a surrealistic, life-changing kind of moment. The one thing that I clearly remember from that conversation was Dr. Hartmann saying the only reason the cancer was found this early was because I had a 3D Mammogram. Otherwise, we may not have known until next year at the earliest,” said Nancy. The cancer was diagnosed at the earliest stage possible, Stage 1A. “The emotional impact and experience is still very strong and of course, the treatments have a physical impact.”

Nancy went back to work that day. “Two co-workers stopped by to check on me. I couldn’t say the words. My eyes filled with tears and they knew. Over the next few weeks, as I wrestled with my diagnosis, I couldn’t spit out the words ‘I have breast cancer.’ I could speak very intelligently all around it but when I had to say those words, they stuck in my throat.”

3D Mammography Makes the Difference

Anna Jaques Hospital offers 3D Mammography at three convenient locations in Newburyport, Amesbury and Haverhill. 3D Mammography is the latest and most advanced technology in breast cancer screenings and detection and is the biggest breakthrough in breast cancer detection in 30 years because it provides clinicians with a level of clarity proven to improve accuracy and reduce call-backs and biopsies. 

Six years ago, Nancy began having routine mammograms every six months due to dense breast tissue. It was a check-off on her to-do list and she never gave it a second thought. Her experience this past November, around Thanksgiving, was what led her to this December day.

“As usual, I went in for my mammogram and waited for the results. The technician came out and said they were seeing something and would like to do an ultrasound.” Nancy had the ultrasound that same day and based on those findings was scheduled for an ultrasound biopsy three days later. “I had a routine appointment with Dr. Hartmann that following Friday so he would go over the results with me then.”

Care Team Leans In

Back in Dr. Hartmann’s office, when Nancy learned she had breast cancer, he sat with her, explained the treatment protocols and discussed options. Then, she met with Kathy Porter, RN, OCN, CBCN, Patient Navigator at the Gerrish Breast Care Center. In her role, Kathy provides support to women throughout their care.

“I am a data person,” said Nancy. “Kathy immediately picked up on that. She leaned in, squeezed my hand and then gave me a number of comprehensive and understandable resource tools about cancer. It had all the data I wanted and prevented me from getting lost on the Internet.”

Since these initial meetings, Nancy has had a Lumpectomy and has just recently completed a series of radiation treatments. “Dr. Hartmann, Dr. Claire Fung, Dr. Jonathan Eneman and the entire team at Anna Jaques are wonderful. I can’t speak highly enough of everyone,” said Nancy. “In an undignified time everyone always respects my dignity and meets me with warmth, and just the right touch of humor. They are always supportive and patient, taking the time to discuss every question on my list.”

Women, Take Care of Yourself
“‘I have breast cancer.’ These words and this entire experience have caused me to look at my health and my life through a different lens,” said Nancy. “We all have a finite amount of time here. It’s okay to be picky, be selective and be respectful of yourself. Be deliberate in your self-care and the choices you make. Your body is the only vessel you have. For me, these are things I have understood intellectually and now I am living them from the heart. My life is a new normal and I don’t ever want to forget these feelings. For such a tough experience it brings me new perspectives that I hope I never lose sight of.” 

Know Your Risk. Get Screened.

Nancy’s Aunt, on her dad’s side, was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 60’s but that’s the only history of breast cancer in Nancy’s family. Because of dense breast tissue Nancy and her doctors established a proactive screening schedule, and her experience is proof that an early detection strategy does work.

“I urge women of all ages to discuss their breast health and history with their physician,” said Nancy. “Work with a breast care team to develop a plan that meets your needs. You don’t need a referral for a mammogram and if your insurance covers it always choose 3D Mammography. Five minutes of your life and a little discomfort can make a huge impact on your future, and prevent so much more time and pain in the long run.”

Don’t lose focus on your health in the shuffle of life. Make a commitment to take care of your emotional and physical health year-round. This is the best gift you could possibly give yourself and your family.

All patients are offered 3D Mammography at Anna Jaques for screening and diagnostic exams regardless of age or breast type. Initial screening results are provided within two business days.

Call 978-834-8210 or visit ajh.org/breastcare for more information and to take a risk assessment. You may self-refer for a screening mammogram. Initial screening results are provided within two business days. Be sure to discuss your assessment with your physician or a member of our breast care team at your next mammogram.

3D Mammography is available at Anna Jaques in three locations – Newburyport, Amesbury and Haverhill.

* Anna Jaques mammography possesses a valid license and certificate of inspection issued by MDPH.

Email: 
Adirondack Leadership Program at Gordon College’s La Vida Center

Babson Farm Quarry Self-guided Walking Tour at Halibut Point

Kids will enjoy this tour of the Halibut Point State Park and Quarry with a focus on its stone-cutting history!
Take a self guided tour at one of Massachusetts most beautiful locations!
7:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saugus Iron Works Park Grounds & Estuary Walk

Take a hike along the Saugus River Estuary ande explore the Saugus Iron Works Park grounds in Massachusetts
Learn about the natural world in Saugus while ecploring the park ground ast the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Massachusetts.
7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit at Pingree School

Pingree School in Hmailton Massachusetts hosts their annual Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture exhibit each Fall. Sculpture: Phoenix by Robin Tost.
Pingree School hosts the 16th annual Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit on their campus in South Hamilton, Massachusetts .
8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Crescent Farm Corn Maze

Crescent Farm corn maze in Haverhill Massachusetts
Imagine the biggest puzzle you’ve ever seen. Now imagine a day in the sunshine with your friends or family. Now add an adventure that takes teamwork and memory skills. All these things and more can be found at Crescent Farms Corn Maze. Crescent Farm Corn Maze trails cut into 9 acres of corn. Inside...
9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Salem Witch Hunt Walking Tour

Learn about the true reality of the Salem Massachusetts Witch Trials Salem Massachusetts on a self guided walking tour with Essex Heritage
This self-guided walking tour is designed to help explain the true history behind the Salem Witch Trials. After more than three centuries of storytelling through countless books, movies, and television shows, the line between historical fact and dramatic fiction has become increasingly blurred....
9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Gloucester Gratis Days at Hammond Castle

Bring your kids to the Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester Massachusetts during April Vacation
In keeping with John Hays Hammond, Jr's original vision for his seaside castle-home to serve as a museum offering the Gloucester community access to ancient works of architectural art, Hammond Castle Museum will offer Gloucester residents free, self-guided tours each Tuesday throughout the regular...
10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Paddle Around Historic Rockport Harbor

Paddle around Rockport Massachusetts Harbor for FREE as part of Trails and Sails
Come join North Shore Adventures and Outdoor Center for some fun on the water! No experience necessary. Depart from our private beach in one of our safe, stable kayaks or paddle boards and paddle around the historic Rockport Harbor for 30 mins. See lobster boats, Motif #1, the Rockport Break water...
10:30 pm

Trails & Sails

Explore the North Shore with over 150 Free Events in Essex National Heritage Area's Trails & Sails celebration in Massachusetts.
Essex National Heritage Area sites will offer over 150 free family fun events from September 14-29, 2024 for the annual celebration of TRAILS & SAILS. Discover special places in your backyard and be guided through unique landscapes on land and sea, explore historic properties, and take in...
7:00 am to 10:00 pm

Wednesday, September 24

Saugus Iron Works Park Grounds & Estuary Walk

Take a hike along the Saugus River Estuary ande explore the Saugus Iron Works Park grounds in Massachusetts
Learn about the natural world in Saugus while ecploring the park ground ast the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Massachusetts.
7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Babson Farm Quarry Self-guided Walking Tour at Halibut Point

Kids will enjoy this tour of the Halibut Point State Park and Quarry with a focus on its stone-cutting history!
Take a self guided tour at one of Massachusetts most beautiful locations!
7:00 am to 6:00 pm

Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit at Pingree School

Pingree School in Hmailton Massachusetts hosts their annual Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture exhibit each Fall. Sculpture: Phoenix by Robin Tost.
Pingree School hosts the 16th annual Flying Horse Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit on their campus in South Hamilton, Massachusetts .
8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Salem Witch Hunt Walking Tour

Learn about the true reality of the Salem Massachusetts Witch Trials Salem Massachusetts on a self guided walking tour with Essex Heritage
This self-guided walking tour is designed to help explain the true history behind the Salem Witch Trials. After more than three centuries of storytelling through countless books, movies, and television shows, the line between historical fact and dramatic fiction has become increasingly blurred....
9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Crescent Farm Corn Maze

Crescent Farm corn maze in Haverhill Massachusetts
Imagine the biggest puzzle you’ve ever seen. Now imagine a day in the sunshine with your friends or family. Now add an adventure that takes teamwork and memory skills. All these things and more can be found at Crescent Farms Corn Maze. Crescent Farm Corn Maze trails cut into 9 acres of corn. Inside...
9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Step Inside the Historic Custom House

Take in the views of this prominent building where Nathaniel Hawthorne once worked and the U.S. Custom Service operated. This Custom House was built in 1819 and housed offices for the officers of the U.S. Customs Service, as well as an attached warehouse, the Public Stores, used for the storage of...
9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Sing & Dance with the Music Man

Sing & Dance with the Music Man Brian Doser in Hamilton visit Massachusetts
Come join the fun at Community House Of Hamilton & Wenham Monday, Thursday and Saturday mornings at 10am for 30 - 45 minutes of great music with Brian Doser! Sing and dance with the Music Man during a family concert, featuring familiar and original tunes, performed by local dad and musician,...
10:00 am to 10:45 am

Discover the Highest Point on the Essex Seacoast!

Take a Trails & Sails hike to the top of Powow Hill in Amesbury Massachusetts!
Come join Amesbury Trails for a guided hikeup Powow Hill, at the summit of the highest peak on the Essex County Seacoast! This narrated hike will include the historical background of the area and descriptions of the features and landscapes encountered along the hike. Enjoy exploring a variety of...
10:00 am

Saugus Iron Works House Tours

Free Ranger guided tours of the Saugus Iron Works House in Massachusetts
Join National Park staff at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a 30-minute tour of The Iron Works House.
11:00 am

Step Aboard the Friendship of Salem

Permission to come aboard the Friendship of Salem is granted at Derby Wharf in Salem Massachusetts!
Explore the FRIENDSHIP OF SALEM, a replica tall ship based on a 1796 Salem vessel at Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
1:30 pm to 4:30 pm