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The Presbyterian Breast Center was filled with nervous chatter as usual last Wednesday afternoon. This time, however, no deductibles were paid nor insurance cards flashed because all screening mammograms were free of charge. Thanks to grants received from both the Avon and Komen Foundations, a total of 62 women (3/4 of which were Latina) received a free mammogram and a lesson in breast health.

This year marks the first time Presbyterian Cancer Center has received the Avon Foundation grant. This grant enabled Presbyterian to hire Debra Anderson, a community breast health educator, to inform the traditionally medically-underserved communities about the importance of early detection, as well as recruit women for mammograms and navigate them through the health care system should a cancer be found. The grant monies from the Komen Foundation in turn are used to cover the expense of a screening mammogram.

"Because of the Avon and Komen Foundations, not only are medically-underserved women invited to receive preventive care, they are empowered by knowing that Presbyterian will be there for them for any future breast health needs," said Debra Anderson. And the system is already working. At this year's third screening, six women have already been called back for a diagnostic exam. They will continue the path to detection and treatment just like every woman deserves.