All under one roof

Kim had no idea when she began her cancer journey just how important access to the best diagnostic equipment would be to her diagnosis, care and recovery.

“I’ve used CMH’s Laboratory and every DI machine during my cancer journey and wish everyone understood how important it was to be treated in your own community,” begins Kim.

Kim’s cancer journey began with her first mammogram at age 52. Her results looked suspicious. Kim received her mammogram — a low dose x-ray of the breast — at our accredited Ontario Breast Screening Program, part of CMH’s Diagnostic Services Department. Mammograms can often save lives by detecting breast cancer early when it’s still small and often before a lump can be felt.

Coming back to CMH for follow up tests, Kim was scheduled for a breast biopsy. Preparation once again required a visit to Diagnostic Imaging. This time, imaging was used to precisely locate the nodule to insert a locating clip at the site. This clip then accurately guides the surgeon to the biopsy location during surgery.

Her biopsy sample was analyzed by our Pathologist in the Laboratory. Kim was diagnosed with triple negative cancer and underwent same-day surgery for a double-mastectomy with breast reconstruction. This unique surgery, available at CMH, offers both mastectomy and breast reconstruction from specialized surgeons, blended into one surgical experience.

“I’m certainly glad I did it all in one go. I had my double mastectomy by Dr. Kolyn and Dr. Chesney did the reconstructive surgery. I wish every woman that has breast cancer had this option to consider.”

Kim Fowler, Grateful Patient



“I’m certainly glad I did it all in one go. I had my double mastectomy by Dr. Kolyn and Dr. Chesney did the reconstructive surgery. I wish every woman that has breast cancer had this option to consider.”

Kim’s chemotherapy and follow up care took her throughout the hospital — from Medical Day Care for treatments, to the Emergency Department and Inpatient Unit for unexpected reactions. Throughout her journey, her blood work, samples, tests and diagnostic images were vital to allow her physicians and oncologists to assess and diagnose issues, and ensure treatment effectiveness. Kim says “I went through a lot and the fact that I don’t see it as having been that bad really speaks to how well I was cared for.”

That level of care was felt throughout her experiences at CMH, including her visits to the Laboratory and Diagnostic Imaging.

“People were always very professional and we are very lucky to have a high quality hospital close to home”

Kim Fowler, Grateful Patient

“People were always very professional and we are very lucky to have a high quality hospital close to home” Kim states, adding “Aside from a special breast MRI elsewhere, all my tests and treatments have been here. I’m so glad that what I needed to have done was available here, and am forever grateful for that.”

To learn more about Diagnostic Services click here.
To learn more about all of our Caring Programs click here.
View more patient stories here.

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