In getting ready for a total right knee replacement, I was completing all my yearly medical screenings which included my mammogram. I was not surprised to be called back for more views, it happened last year as well but I was very anxious and agitated when I was informed of the need for a biopsy. The appointment time available conflicted with my work hours and other pre-surgical testing. I was having a difficult time behaving like an adult in the face of the obstacles before me. Maureen was amazing, she created a space of possibility and acceptance. She reviewed the schedule and found a space that worked for me and explained why it was important to follow up on the breast biopsy now. She brought in the doctor to speak with me as well. He was also a calming influence and a voice of rationality in my emotional panic.

On the day of the biopsy, Maureen greeted me and explained exactly what I was to expect. She was in the room for the biopsy, the doctor was clear in his directions so, I could cooperate with the procedure. Most importantly Maureen made me feel that I had someone with me who knew me and who supported me. When I could easily have turned into a raging child, she anticipated my reactions and guided me into willing cooperation to make adult decisions and focused plans.

My biopsy results are not good. My knee surgery is canceled. But even that can be faced with more confidence and self-acceptance based on the help I received from Maureen.