
Community members in the Gunnison Valley are set to benefit from new breast
care equipment now available at Gunnison Valley Health, thanks to the
financial support of Cattlemen’s Days Tough Enough To Wear Pink (TETWP).
Gunnison Valley Health’s diagnostic radiologist and breast imaging
specialist Dr. Karien Campbell said the new diagnostic equipment means
that biopsies and further testing on abnormal mammograms can now be performed
locally which once required travel.
“The new breast biopsy device precisely identifies the abnormal calcification
within the breast, and the specimen equipment confirms a successful sample
in real-time, eliminating the need for repeat biopsies,” Dr. Campbell said.
“The new imaging equipment, complete with our 3D tomosynthesis mammography
machine, ensures that we can deliver exceptional breast imaging services
in the Valley,” she said. “TETWP should be commended on their
passion and commitment to breast care. We could not have offered this
service without their support,” she said.
TETWP Executive Director Heidi Sherratt said they are delighted to fund
the $160,000 equipment cost necessary to further enhance breast imaging
in this community.
“Our mission is to not only create awareness about breast cancer,
but to invest in and educate our local community about the importance
of prevention through regular mammograms,” said Ms. Sherratt. “We
now have the equipment and Dr. Campbell’s 20 years of breast imaging
expertise to deliver a superior mammography service right here in the
Valley.”
Gunnison Valley Health’s CEO Rob Santilli said TETWP has been a driving
force to help make Gunnison Valley Health one of the best rural breast
care hospitals in the nation and we have nothing but appreciation for
this support.
“Already this year, we have completed over 1,600 mammograms which
is a testament to the TETWP team and our radiology technicians, especially
Kelsey Loftis, who ensured our mammography quality standards passed the
rigorous state inspection without one deficiency,” said Mr. Santilli.
“We are also fortunate to have the knowledge and expertise of general
surgeon and breast care prevention specialist Dr. Stephania Timothy and
oncologist Dr. Paulette Blanchet who complement our imaging services and
tie our breast care services together.”
“Thank you TETWP for your continued support. We now have the team
and the equipment to deliver the best in breast care services that rival
anywhere in the nation,” Santilli said.