Senator Klobuchar: "Early detection saves lives. It saved my life.

I still remember the afternoon I received "that phone call". I was about to head to the Senate plenary hall to vote when my doctor gave me the news that everyone dreaded.

A few weeks earlier, a doctor at the Mayo Clinic had discovered small white spots, called calcifications, during a routine mammogram. After this was discovered, I underwent a biopsy at the Piper Breast Center in Minneapolis. Then I received "that call." [That was eight months ago, and it was the beginning of a journey that included surgery and radiation and also coincided with my father's illness and death. Of course it was hard, but today my doctors tell me that my chances of getting cancer again are no greater than normal people

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As we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I think about the many Americans who have breast cancer but are unaware they have it because they have postponed physicals and regular checkups due to the pandemic, just as I have delayed breast cancer screening.

In fact, more than one in three adults report delaying or forgoing medical care because of concerns related to coronavirus (opens in new tab). Doctors see patients every day who are being treated for more advanced illnesses that could have been detected earlier. [We must encourage preventive medicine.

It is difficult to make time for mammograms and regular checkups. Many Americans are teaching their first-graders how to use the mute button on their Zoom calls while juggling the conflicting demands of work, family, and health.

However, regular health checkups, examinations, and follow-through are essential. By some estimates, thousands of people who did not get mammograms (open in new tab) because of the pandemic may be living with undetected breast cancer.

Simply put, early detection saves lives. I am thankful that I found my cancer early and did not need chemotherapy or other treatments with side effects. Since sharing my story, I have heard from people all over the country about their cancer experiences and the importance of preventive care, and they have written to me:

"I felt then, and still do, that I was handed a box marked 'bad news,' but when I opened the box I found many smaller boxes, each with 'good news' I am the poster child for early detection. I am the poster child for early detection."

[20] "You have inspired me to go for a mammogram. I had been avoiding getting mammograms because of COVID. I am going to get one tomorrow. [I was] humbled that people felt comfortable opening up about their most difficult days, tough treatment choices, and appreciation for life.

If there is one thing I have learned through this experience, it is that every day is a gift. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make that gift count by putting your health first and using preventive health services. And call your friends and cheer them on when they do the same. It could save their lives.