ROME, Ga., Oct. 20, 2023 – Truett's Chick-fil-A in Rome was again the site of activity before sunrise Friday morning as Atrium Health Floyd held its annual Pink Day celebration, which coincides with National Mammography Day, to stress the importance of getting an annual mammogram.
“I think this event serves as a reminder for Floyd, our community and for all of northwest Georgia about why mammograms are so important and the impact they can have on a person's life," said Aimee Griffin, vice president of professional services at Atrium Health Floyd and former director of The Breast Center at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center.
“This event is also a great time to reflect and to celebrate survivors and those who have passed on because of breast cancer," Griffin added.
Jill Mathis and her fellow educators from Pepperell Primary School were waiting outside the restaurant's door Friday morning at 5:52 a.m. before it was unlocked. A group from the school usually attends the event every year.
A big draw for the event are the complimentary Paper Doll magnets, which often end up on vehicles and refrigerators throughout the region. Breast health educators also attend to provide lifesaving information.
Mathis said she has attended the event for at least 8 years.
“The first year I was at Pepperell Primary they had a group that was already coming, so I started attending with them. This year I had a very good friend who passed away from breast cancer in January so I couldn't not come this time. I had to be here."
The Breast Center at Atrium Health Floyd opened 15 years ago in 2008, setting the standard for providing quality screening diagnostic care in a timely manner.
National and local leaders in breast health care recognize the center for its quality and commitment to patients. The center is also recognized for its Know in 24 promise, a pledge to provide same-day or next-day results for women who receive a mammogram.
The Breast Center also operates a Mobile Mammography Coach that is outfitted with a state-of-the-art, digital mammography machine and staffed by clinicians who are specially trained in screening mammography. It offers a unique advantage for those who need a mammogram but want to minimize lost work time because of travel requirements.
A second coach Mobile Mammography Coach will be located next year at Atrium Health Floyd's stand-alone emergency department in Chattooga County. Using that location as a headquarters, the coach will make it more convenient for women in rural areas who need a mammogram.