Spotlight on Shannon Saxler, mammography technologist in Quesnel

(Shared with permission from BC Cancer)

Meet Shannon Saxler, a mammography technologist at G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital in Quesnel

When she’s not saving lives, Shannon enjoys being outdoors, including hiking and camping in the warmer months, and snowboarding through the winter.

Shannon has been working as a mammography technologist for over nine years.

“The best part of my day is hearing a woman tell me at the end of her exam that she was scared and didn’t want to come, but it wasn’t the horrible experience she expected and will be back again when the time comes,” she says. “Regular screening mammograms can improve the chances of an earlier diagnosis, often resulting in a better long-term prognosis, so it’s incredibly important to stay on top of your breast health.”

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in British Columbia. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and sadly, one in 28 women are expected to die from the disease. Screening mammography is the best test to routinely detect breast cancer and reduce the chance of death for those who don’t have symptoms. Mammograms can find lumps two or three years before you or your health care provider can feel them; finding cancer when it’s small allows for more treatment options and a better chance at recovery.

“Having a mammogram is a very personal and intimate exam,” says Shannon, “and we know it comes with a heavy amount of worry as to the results. The best thing you can do is come in and talk with us. We’re here to offer more than just the physical exam. We, as a group, are highly trained and passionate about your breast health and can offer resources and reassurance.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, breast screening continues to be safe and effective. To learn more about the policies and procedures in place to keep patients and staff safe, visit screening bc.

BC Cancer Breast Screening offers free screening mammograms for eligible women. To book your mammogram, call 1-800-663-9203, or visit screening bc to book online.