I first learned about the Breast Reconstruction Center of New Jersey when my older sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and I accompanied her to her post-op appointment.
I will never forget Moira [Davis, RN] greeting my sister in Montclair Breast Center’s waiting room with a BIG hug. It was as if she was part of our family. From that moment on I knew that the Breast Reconstruction Center of New Jersey was a truly special place. I already knew that they excelled clinically, but was especially touched by their caring manner.
Although I was then just 31, Moira and my sister encouraged me to get screened due to my family history. I agreed and became a patient of the Breast Reconstruction Center of New Jersey as well.
In 2002, at the age of 37, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer just a few months before my regularly scheduled breast exam. My OB/GYN found a lump on a Friday and BRC scheduled me on the following Monday for a breast exam, mammogram, ultrasound and needle biopsy. I received the call on Tuesday with the bad news it was cancer and the cancerous lump was removed on Thursday of that same week! Yes, in less than a week I was diagnosed and treated. Where does that happen?
After receiving my diagnosis, Moira arranged for me to meet with Dr. Allen Rosen about my breast reconstruction. I was surprised to find that I did not even need to schedule an appointment since the Plastic Surgery Center offices are part of the Breast Reconstruction Center of New Jersey and just one floor below Montclair Breast Center. At first I was reluctant to consider plastic surgery because I was so focused on simply surviving. But Moira counseled me to have breast reconstruction at the same time as my surgery which is a decision I will always be grateful for. Moira understood so well what I was dealing with and knew that Dr. Rosen’s artful breast reconstruction would be comforting when I was past the anxiety of diagnosis and treatment.
I get my yearly screening mammogram at BRC and have never once minded paying out-of-network fees because the care, expertise, and compassion I receive are so worth it. I cannot put a price tag on my health.
I feel like the luckiest breast cancer survivor to have had the Breast Reconstruction Center of New Jersey treat me, care for me and save my life.