I had a last-minute mammogram scheduled on yesterday, and with my medical history and experience bouncing between different facilities, I made sure to look up reviews ahead of time to mentally prepare myself.
I’ll be honest, I was a little frustrated with the wait, but I can own that. My patience was low, and my anxiety was at a 10. That’s where the staff really stood out. Ms. Linda noticed right away that I was nervous and even took the time to check on when I was supposed to be called back. Within seconds, she followed up and kept me informed on what was going on. I truly appreciated her professionalism, her initiative, and her ability to anticipate what I needed in that moment and follow through without hesitation. That meant a lot.
Meanwhile, I’m quietly praying through my frustration, hoping I’d get the radiologist Julia, I saw mentioned in the reviews. When she came in and started speaking, so calm, so clear, so comforting, I immediately felt a shift. I actually stopped her and asked her to repeat her name. It was Julia. In that moment, I just said, “Thank you, God.”
I’ve been getting yearly mammograms since I was 22, and now at 49, I can honestly say this was one of the most professional, compassionate, and reassuring experiences I’ve ever had. Her presence was calming, her spirit was genuine, and her energy made me feel safe, seen, and truly cared for in a way that’s hard to put into words.
To LEADERSHIP, professionals like her set the standard. She is exactly what patient care should look and feel like.
I also want to thank the doctor who reviewed my ultrasound and mammogram. I didn’t catch his name, but thank you, Sir. You were very knowledgeable, thorough, and reassuring. What really stood out as a bonus was how the doctors and surgeons were able to come together and discuss the next steps in my care ad advise me of it while still there. That level of teamwork, communication, and coordination is unmatched and honestly brought tears to my eyes. This level of care was above and beyond, intentional, compassionate, and deeply appreciated. I had to hug Julia because this was amazing.
I won’t be going back to the VA for my mammograms. This is my new home. I felt like more than just a patient. I felt valued.
-Adrienne
CF
Cynthia Frometa
Mar 6, 2026
This was my second time coming to this Breast Center for a mammogram. I always feel nervous before these appointments.
The front desk staff member was very kind and even remembered that I am deaf, which meant a lot to me. I wish I knew her name so I could thank her.
My first visit last year was a very good experience. The technician was gentle, patient, and understanding, which helped me feel calm.
Unfortunately, my experience this time was very different. The technician named Becky was a little rough during the procedure. I told her multiple times that it was hurting and that my previous technician had been gentle and did not cause pain. Instead of responding with patience or adjusting, I felt like my concerns were dismissed. At one point it became so uncomfortable that I felt like I couldn’t breathe, and my anxiety and heart rate went very high. Looking back, I probably should have asked to stop the exam, but I was already overwhelmed.
After the exam, I went to change clothes and was crying. A wonderful nurse named Julia noticed and brought me into a room so I could calm down. She listened to me, showed compassion, and helped me regulate my breathing when I was shaking. Julia truly made a difficult situation much better, and I am very grateful for her kindness.
Because of Julia and the helpful front desk staff, I am giving this center 3 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️instead of 1. ⭐️However, I hope management will speak with Becky about being more gentle and patient with patients, especially those who may already feel anxious or who have communication barriers like being deaf.
I would recommend asking for Julia or another technician if you are someone who experiences anxiety, trauma, or PTSD related to medical procedures.
I hope my next visit will be a better experience.