A Worthwhile Mammogram for Kaytie

In 2019, Kaytie married the love of her life. Together they built a beautiful family, welcoming two children. Life as a young mom was full of joy until, while breastfeeding her daughter, Kaytie discovered a lump in her breast. She scheduled an appointment with her OB/GYN, Dr. Randi Turkewitz, who ordered a mammogram and ultrasound. The ultrasound revealed abnormal tissue that ultimately led to Kaytie’s breast cancer diagnosis.

Kaytie recalls wondering, “I waited my whole life to be a mom. Am I even going to get to do it?” She and her husband had made their wedding vows “in sickness and in health,” but she never imagined those words would come so early in their marriage.

After her diagnosis, Kaytie underwent a series of tests, including an MRI and PET scan, before beginning six months of chemotherapy. She describes the journey as an emotional roller coaster, filled with both doubt and determination. Through it all, her doctors encouraged her, often remarking on her perseverance and strength as a role model for others facing cancer.

Kaytie first met Dr. Turkewitz while pregnant with her son, and their relationship grew throughout her cancer journey. “She’s relatable, she’s a mom, and I respect her so much,” Kaytie said.

Genetic testing later revealed Kaytie carries the ATM gene mutation, which puts her at a 40% higher lifetime risk of breast cancer. With this information, she worked closely with Dr. Sharon Goldstein, who recommended a double mastectomy. Kaytie felt fully supported and reassured, saying she trusted Dr. Goldstein’s expertise and compassionate care.

Both physicians played important roles in her healing process, and Kaytie is grateful for the quality of care she received at Independence Health System. “You can feel when a doctor truly cares about you,” she shared. “It’s like seeing an old friend at this point.”

On April 4, Kaytie received the news she was in remission. Though it didn’t feel real at first, she has since embraced the milestone with hope and gratitude.

Since her diagnosis in August 2023, Kaytie has met at least three other young moms also facing cancer. This experience has only strengthened her commitment to raising awareness about the importance of early detection. “Early detection saves lives,” she says, and she continues to share her story to encourage other women to be proactive about their health.

Today, Kaytie credits the expert, compassionate care at Independence Health System for guiding her through her cancer journey and giving her more precious time with her family.

To schedule your mammogram appointment online, click here.

To view walk in mammogram information, click here.

To find an OB/GYN provider in your area, click here.