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By Sierra Kondos

Special to The News

 

NEDERLAND — A Nederland woman says a hallway collision with her dog led to the discovery of cancer.

Melinda “Mendy” Williamson, 63, began her cancer fight in September 2023 after a mammogram revealed early-stage breast cancer.

“My Pitbully dog, Sam, had tripped me on my slip, and I fell into the corner of the hallway,” Williamson said. “I got a knot on my right breast, so then, I figured I needed to get it checked out. I got a mammogram, and my dog tripping me saved my life because I had a little early stage of breast cancer.”

Williamson underwent surgery on Dec. 18, 2023 at the Baptist Cancer Center.

“I was fortunate not to have chemotherapy since they caught it at the beginning,” she said. “Julia Fletcher was my surgeon, and I saw Dr. Khalil and other doctors there as well. They are kind and loving and made me feel comfortable.”

The Nederland native said she received 20 radiation treatments before she rang the bell.

“I would like to thank the people at Baptist Hospital in Beaumont,” she said. “As well as the Baptist Cancer Center in Port Arthur and Julie Rogers Gift of Life. They are kind and compassionate and gave me advice that I would like to share with readers.”

Their advice is to go back to basics with food.

“Eat leafy greens and vegetables,” she said. “Consume fruits like bananas and cantaloupes. Eat as organic as you can. It will heal your body and mind.”

Williamson advises women to get regular check-ups and mammograms.

“Preventative measures will save your life,” she said.

Julie Rogers Gift of Life is located at 2390 Dowlen Road, Beaumont Texas 77706. Call 409-833-3663 to schedule your appointment.