As the director of Avera Cancer Institute — Marshall, Jessica Moriarty knows the importance of mammograms and early detection. It’s what she preaches every day to patients. But when her mother Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer late last year, Jessica’s work became personal.
“The Marshall region has the longest wait for mammograms throughout the Avera system,” Jessica said. “My mom called to get an appointment scheduled for October but waited several weeks for her mammogram.”
Thankfully for Linda, her diagnosis was early stage, surgery was an option, and she didn’t have to undergo chemotherapy.
Now in Marshall, a new 3D mammography machine is reducing wait times and providing up to 70 more breast cancer screenings every week. Timeliness matters for these patients, and Avera Foundation doors made this and so much more possible.
“Our generous benefactors have already helped us in so many ways from providing patient resources to improving services and access to navigation specialists,” Jessica said. “Your gifts help make the cancer journey a little bit easier for our patients.”
How We Support Cancer Care
At the Avera Foundation, cancer care and prevention are key areas of focus. Learn why it matters and how you can help.