The Sheila R.Veloz Breast Imaging Center set aside an entire day in August for Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital employees, physicians, volunteers and their families for mammogram appointments. The breast imaging center had never before blocked a special day for hospital employees, physicians and volunteers, and had appointments scheduled from 7:45 a.m.through 7 p.m.that evening. Physicians' office staff were also invited.

"We wanted to make sure that our own caregivers are stopping to take the time to care for themselves," said Terry Bucknall, Director of the SheilaR.VelozBreastImagingCenter. "So we blocked the entire schedule day for them and we're providing refreshments and massages to make it more inviting for the staff to come in." Male employees, physicians and volunteers were encouraged to tell their spouses. The special appointments were promoted through direct mail.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer and screening guidelines recommend that women over 40 have a mammogram every year. Risk factors for breast cancer include age, changes in hormone levels, obsesity, family history and physical activity. Early detection is the best protection against breast cancer. Owned and operated by HenryMayoNewhallMemorialHospital, the SheilaR.VelozBreastImagingCenterhas been offering digital imaging, top-tier professional support and first class service in the Santa Clarita Valley since 2002.

The next Mammo Monday is scheduled for Feb. 11, 2008. For an appointment, call (661) 253-8822.