At 19 years old, Mackenzie never expected to find herself facing a breast health scare.
Breast cancer is common among the women in Mackenzie’s family, but growing up, she didn’t know much about her own breast health. Then, she discovered a lump in one of her breasts.
Because Mackenzie didn’t have health insurance, her first concern was how she would afford the care she needed. She visited Planned Parenthood for a breast exam, where she was told she would need additional screening. That’s when she first heard about Gateway to Hope.
“I knew I wouldn’t be able to afford a screening on my own, so I reached out,” Mackenzie said.
Gateway to Hope Screening Navigator Kacey quickly connected with Mackenzie, explaining what she could expect from the procedure. For Mackenzie, who felt unfamiliar with breast health and the healthcare system, having someone patiently answer her questions made a meaningful difference.
“Kacey was outstanding,” Mackenzie said. “Every time I spoke with her, she always went out of her way to make sure I was comfortable. She answered all my questions and was so kind and patient.”
Gateway to Hope also provided financial assistance that fully covered Mackenzie’s screening and included a gas card to help with transportation costs. Without that support, getting the care she needed could have taken much longer.
“I am eternally grateful for the financial assistance I was provided,” Mackenzie said. “It would have taken me at least a year to save enough money to pay for the screening myself. Because of Gateway to Hope, I was able to get the screening so much sooner.”
The weeks waiting for her screening were difficult. At just 19, the possibility of a cancer diagnosis was frightening, and Mackenzie says the uncertainty was mentally challenging. When she finally received the news that her lump was benign, she felt an overwhelming sense of relief.
Today, Mackenzie hopes her experience can help others recognize the importance of understanding their breast health, and knowing where to turn when they need help. While Mackenzie’s story ended with reassuring news, she knows that the experience changed her perspective. Facing the possibility of a life-altering diagnosis at such a young age gave her a unique understanding of how frightening uncertainty can be, and how much of a difference it can make when someone like Kacey is there to help you navigate it.
For Mackenzie, Gateway to Hope provided support, guidance, financial assistance, and reassurance when she needed it most.
