 |
| CANCER STORY: JUDY JOHNSON |
Judy Johnson is sleeping through the night again, but just a few months ago, she was navigating the road of parenthood. Here's her story.
As a new mom, Judy felt pretty confident about her parenting skills. She knew how to change diapers. She was prepared to breastfeed. And the sound of a crying baby was music to her ears.
So when her sister-in-law suggested attending a weekly support group for new moms at Edward, Judy was reluctant to go.
"I thought I had read every baby book out there – I knew how to change a diaper, I went to a breastfeeding class, I could stand the sound of a crying baby. I didn't think I needed a support group," said the 39 year old Woodridge resident.
But after attending one session, Judy was "hooked." She learned new tips about car seat safety, feeding, tummy time and getting her child to sleep through the night. She had the chance to talk to a registered nurse and other new moms about her baby's milestones. In fact, Judy attributes many of her parenting skills to Cradle Talk.
"Attending Cradle Talk was the best thing I ever did. It gave me confidence and knowledge about the little things you just can't find on the internet or in a book," said Judy. "Terry Parker, the program coordinator and nurse, was so encouraging. She has helped to make my experience as a mother a good one."
Life is busy for Judy. She works part-time and tries to keep up with her daughter who is now almost two. She also has another daughter, who is six months old.
But time stood still for Judy when micro-calcifications were detected in her breast during a routine mammogram. (Because of her family history of breast cancer, Judy started having mammograms earlier in life.) She was told that she needed a biopsy. The results of the biopsy showed that she needed a lumpectomy, which determined it was breast cancer.
Once again, Judy turned to Edward for treatment – and encouragement. Judy will need some radiation, but the cancer has not spread.
"On the day of my lumpectomy, my care was extremely organized from start to finish. The breast care coordinator held my hand and stayed with me," said Judy. "The care that I received made everything more tolerable."
First time moms!
Bring your newborn and discover Cradle Talk, an informal weekly support group. For more information, go to www.edward.org/maternity
Do you need a mammogram?
Judy Johnson's doctor discovered micro-calcifications in her breast during a routine mammogram. Screening mammograms are important for the early detection of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends mammogram screening every year for all women age 40 and older. Certain women at higher risk may need to have a mammogram sooner. Talk to your physician and learn more about breast health at www.edward.org/breasthealth.
|
