A Powerful Reminder of Self-Advocacy and Early Detection
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing the inspiring story of Jessica Bartolini, a 32-year-old graphic designer from Connecticut who detected breast cancer early through advocating for herself. Jessica’s journey highlights the importance of courage, self-awareness, and early detection. While annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, her story encourages all women, regardless of age, to trust their instincts, stay aware of changes in their bodies, and prioritize their health.
Meet Jessica: how self-awareness shaped her health journey
Jessica’s story began long before her diagnosis. She’s spent most of her life in Connecticut, graduated from the University of New Haven, and has been a graphic designer since 2015. Outside of work, she’s passionate about painting, crafting, photography, and attending Taylor Swift concerts. Along with her creative pursuits, Jessica has always been mindful of her health—keeping up with her annual OB-GYN exams and regularly performing self-breast exams. But everything changed when, in her 30s, she felt a lump in her breast.
Discovering the Diagnosis
At a routine OB-GYN visit, Jessica mentioned an unusual lump she found in her breast. Her doctor wasn’t initially concerned but recommended an ultrasound for peace of mind. When the ultrasound indicated it was a cyst, her physician advised that removal wasn’t necessary at the time. However, months later, Jessica noticed the lump had grown, and her instincts told her something wasn’t right. She asked for further tests, which led to a biopsy, and on Valentine’s Day 2023, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer.
Jessica’s story highlights the importance of performing regular self-breast exams and asking questions about your health. While mammograms are typically recommended starting at age 40, younger women can still take proactive steps by monitoring their breast health through self-exams and discussing any concerns with their doctor.
The Power of Self-Advocacy
Jessica’s consistent self-breast exams and decision to seek additional testing serve as a reminder to trust your body and discuss any lumps or areas of concern with your physician. “I’ve always been self-aware, and I knew something was off. If you feel something is wrong, you have to ask for testing. Trust your instincts.”
Although mammograms are typically covered by insurance starting at age 40, Jessica’s commitment to self-exams and openly communicating her concerns with her doctor helped her catch her cancer early. For women everywhere, performing regular self-breast exams can make a life-saving difference. For women over 40, Jefferson Radiology’s advanced 3D mammography technology can help detect breast cancer up to 41% more effectively than traditional mammograms.
Overcoming Challenges and Getting Back to Life
After her diagnosis, Jessica underwent surgery to remove the cancerous cyst. One of her toughest challenges, she recalls, was balancing her desire to get back to normal life—including attending a Taylor Swift concert in May—with the reality of asking for help during her recovery. “Suddenly, I couldn’t lift anything heavier than five pounds. Accepting help was hard, but my family and friends were there for me every step of the way.”
Because her cancer was caught early, Jessica’s treatment was less invasive—she avoided chemotherapy and only needed radiation. “Early detection made my treatment more manageable, and my recovery was smoother,” she says. Determined to return to the things she loved, Jessica pushed herself to heal, with her concert as her goal.
(Jessica pictured on the right)
Jessica’s Message to Women Everywhere
Jessica is now a passionate advocate for regular health checkups, annual mammograms, and staying in tune with your body. “If you notice something, even if it seems small, don’t wait—get it checked.” For women under 40, regular self-breast exams are a simple way to stay aware of any changes, while for those 40 and older, mammograms are a key part of early detection.
(Jessica pictured second from the right)
Life After Diagnosis
Since her recovery, Jessica has dedicated her time to raising breast cancer awareness. She volunteers with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, offering support to others. “Giving back has been incredibly rewarding,” she says. “Helping others through their cancer journeys has helped me heal, too.” If you’re interested in learning more about the American Cancer Society and how you can become a volunteer like Jessica, click here to learn more.
Jessica’s experience is a reminder to all women: trust your body, speak up, and take proactive steps for your health. Early detection saves lives, and it’s essential to stay on top of your health with regular self-exams and mammograms.
(Jessica pictured on the left)
Conclusion
Jessica’s journey reinforces the importance of listening to your body and advocating for your health. While mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, self-breast exams and speaking up about concerns can make all the difference at any age. At Jefferson Radiology, we are proud to offer 3D mammography to help detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Prioritize your health—call us at 860-289-3375 to schedule your mammogram today.
Resources:
- Mammography services at Jefferson Radiology
- The Power of 3D Mammography for Early Detection
- The American Cancer Society
- Jessica Bartolini: Breast Cancer Survivor & Advocate
