HEALTH
68
Treasure Coast Medical Report
AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION
WILL PAY OFF IN THE LONG RUN
The adage “the best defense is a good offense” can certainly
be applied to fighting breast cancer. Many women
who have been diagnosed with the disease have learned
that regular screening can save lives.
The American Cancer Society recommends that screening
for women begins at age 40 with annual mammograms.
All women should have their checkups, even if
breast cancer does not run in their families.
“Just because you don’t have a family member who’s
ever had breast cancer, doesn’t mean you can’t get it,”
Dr. Denise Sanderson said. “A lot of women become lax
because they think it doesn’t run in their families. But 90
percent of breast cancers are spontaneous with no risk factors
except being a woman. So I would encourage women
to be empowered — do their exams — have their mammograms
once a year — go to their doctors when they
know there’s something new or different independent of
what their family history is.”
Breast cancer screening is also recommended for some
men at higher risk due to an inherited gene mutation or
a strong family history, according to the Susan G. Komen
Foundation.
— Donna Crary
enjoyment due you; lace up your dancing shoes. White cells
will surely multiply in the process.”
She followed his prescription. Titus started going to the
beach most mornings at daybreak to watch the sun rise over
the sparkling blue waves. She walked a mile a day. Her newfound
therapy included dancing, praying, meeting people
and savoring moments of life.
“I was getting in touch with my creator,” Titus said.
“Breathing sea mist and salty air is very good for you. There
is a profound tie between the health of the soul and the
health of the body. At diagnosis , we have a choice: Do we
sit it out, grumpy — all consumed with the disease or …
dance?”
After seven recurrences, Titus has been cancer free since
2010. Today, she loves spending time with her children and
four grandchildren, who live in Central Florida. She also
enjoys ministering to cancer patients — “loving the fear out
of them” — and sharing the message of her book.
“My message is how to be real, open and honest with zest
when someone stamps a stage four on your forehead — you
just got to keep going,” she said.
DR. ALAN COLLIN — Retired oncologist takes on role
of a cancer survivor
In September 2011, Alan Collin of Tradition retired from
Hematology-Oncology Associates of the Treasure Coast
and entered a new chapter of his life. He found more time
to travel, relax and work out at the gym. One day while he
was lifting weights, he felt a pain come across his chest. He
moved his hand over the sore area and felt a nodule directly
under his left nipple.
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