Cascade Medical Offers Free Mammograms for Uninsured Women in October

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Cascade Medical has a free opportunity to get women in for mammograms during the month of October. Women that live within Cascade Medical's district and don't have adequate insurance coverage are eligible for a free mammogram on the hospital's new 3D mammography equipment.

"Whether they have no insurance or a high deductible, they are still eligible. But we do ask they live within our hospital district," said Rachel Hansen, public relations coordinator for Cascade Medical. This is generally those that reside in the boundaries for Cascade School District.

Early detection is critical. In comparison, the average size lump detected by a mammogram is the size of a pea whereas women that do regular self examines, the average size lump discovered is the size of a dime. An average sized lump found by accident is the size of a quarter.

"For women who maybe don't want to make time for a mammogram or have some fear surrounding it, it is critical they make time for this preventative screening because time is of the essence when it comes to early detection," said Hansen.

In 2017, one local woman, Connie Dunn happened to take advantage of the free mammograms offered at Cascade Medical and ended up discovering early stage-one breast cancer. Dunn was treated and according to Hansen, it has stayed in remission. This was a success story that illustrates how this program can make a life saving difference.

"This is made possible by a partnership with Cascade Medical Foundation and local businesses. There's about 20 businesses this year participating," said Hansen. The partnership is often referred to as 'Think Pink'.

Each business has the system set up a little differently, but the overarching idea is that part of their proceeds are donated toward these free mammograms. Cascade Medical Foundation has also orchestrated four events throughout the month of October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness.

On October 13th at 5:30 p.m, there will be a Think Pink Yoga Flow at Beyoutiful Hot Yoga. On October 23rd, there will be a benefit night at Wildflour Restaurant followed by Bushel and Bee hosting a Tipsy Talk with two local breast cancer survivors on the 24th. On the 25th, Icicle Creek Center for the Arts will be presenting a ski and snowboarding film, 'Winterland', and the proceeds will also be turned over to Think Pink as well.

To schedule your Think Pink mammogram, call (509) 548-2512.