ROME, Ga., Oct. 15, 2025 – Marcia Ely has a simple but direct message for women: “Never, ever skip an annual mammogram. Early detection is so very important and can even save your life.”
While Ely learned that lesson the hard way, she is grateful for the care and compassion she received at The Breast Center at Atrium Health Floyd.
On April 1, 2024, Ely retired. Three months later she said she finally took the time to get a mammogram, something she knew she should have received years ago. “I never wanted to take a day off from work,” she said. “The day I walked in to get a mammogram, that day was the day that changed my life forever.”
The next day, July 2, her phone rang.
“I answered the phone and the voice on the other end was so very gentle and kind, but the words she spoke totally took my breath away. ‘“I am sorry Mrs. Ely but your biopsy came back positive for breast cancer.’” The Know in 24 promise is a cornerstone of care at The Breast Center, removing the added burden of not knowing for those who may be facing a cancer diagnosis.
After having an MRI, she had an appointment with Dr. Paul Brock, medical director at The Breast Center and a general surgeon at Harbin Clinic. “His gentle and loving care was beyond amazing,” Ely said.
“I was quickly assigned a cancer navigator, Deb Bishop, who is literally an angel on earth. She, as well as every doctor, nurse, receptionist, door greeter and employee were so compassionate, and each one made sure I was comfortable and cared for.”
She had a lumpectomy, and then 21 radiation treatments.
“I have already recommended The Breast Center to several friends over the past year because of the care and commitment they had for me, personally. They were never too busy for me,” Ely said. “They saw my need and they answered my call. Every person I came in contact with was always positive and confident and they made me a lot less afraid.”
Recognizing the need to bring mammography technology to rural northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama, Atrium Health Floyd also launched its Mobile Mammography Coach in 2008 when The Breast Center opened.
The Mobile Mammography Coach 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.
The experience is similar to a physician appointment. The staff will perform your mammogram and examination in a private environment that's so comfortable you may forget you're on a customized travel coach.
Atrium Health Floyd + Harbin Clinic are your trusted sources for comprehensive breast care. For more information about services or to schedule an appointment, call 706-509-6840 or visit Floyd.org/Mammogram.