BOONVILLE — Cancer survivor Jeannie Wiedmer, of Boonville, believes early detection is the key.

When were you diagnosed, what age and what stage?

In the summer of 2008, I went for my yearly mammogram. I was 55 years old. They thought they saw a shadow. I then had to go for an MRI. Yes, I had a spot and had to go for a biopsy at Dr. Simon’s office. I found out that it was cancerous. It was Stage II. 

What was your treatment process?

I was scheduled for a lumpectomy in August 2008. Surgery went well, the lump was removed and I came home the same day to heal for six weeks. I then had to go Monday through Friday for 32 consecutive radiation treatments at Faxton Cancer Center. I tolerated the treatments very well and the staff was very caring.  I also had to be seen by the surgeon and the doctor of radiation frequently to monitor my progress.

What message would you like to provide others in the community?

The diagnosis of cancer is very concerning and upsetting, but I am delighted to say I had very good care and all went well. My advice would be don’t skip your mammogram as I believe that early detection is the key. There is help out there - take advantage of it.

Are you a breast cancer survivor, or do you know someone who is? As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Daily Sentinel is saluting survivors in this daily feature throughout October. To be featured, email Pam Sperbeck at PSperbeck@RNYmedia.com