Each year, more than 250,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. Many women report the first sign of their breast cancer was a new breast lump they discovered on their own. That's why it's important to be familiar with the normal consistency of your breasts.

WLTX's Darci Strickland talked with breast cancer survivor Becky Carter, who shared her story of early detection. 



When Becky was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2019, she was no stranger to the disease. Her two sisters had been diagnosed a couple years before. Though the three sisters did not have the BRCA gene mutation that increases the risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer, Becky had always been diligent about having an annual mammogram. 

Despite having an a negative screening mammogram in early 2019, Becky felt that something wasn't right. She went back to her doctor six months later and had a 3D mammogram, which detected her breast cancer. 

Becky's treatment included a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. She's eager to soon pass the one year milestone in her recovery. Becky's message to other women facing breast cancer is, "Trust God. Trust your doctors. He's given them the gift to help you. He is the ultimate healer."

In addition to having regular mammograms, Darci encourages women to know your breasts, know when something changes, and advocate for yourself if you feel something is wrong.