Women Get Mammograms at Portage Hospital’s “Pink at Portage” Event

Associates of the Portage Hospital Women’s Center were “tickled pink” on Saturday morning as local women came to receive their annual mammogram and enjoy the many amenities during “Pink at Portage.”

“Pink at Portage” is a monthly event offering women the opportunity to get their annual mammogram, while receiving a complimentary brunch, massage and bone density screening.

According to Oncology Service Line Executive Teresa Langley, “Pink at Portage” was designed for the patients’ convenience and comfort. “We wanted to make our patients feel special when they got their mammogram – all during a Saturday morning, when it may be more convenient for them.”

Langley explained that the idea for a comfortable and spa-like atmosphere during mammogram screenings began at Porter Regional Hospital with a similar event called “Think Pink” on Thursday evenings. During “Think Pink Thursdays,” Serenity Spa representatives provide massages, manicures and pedicures for attendees.

After “Think Pink’s” success, “Pink at Portage” began in May. They partnered with local massage therapist Karri Morgan, who provides her massage services at the Portage and LaPorte YMCAs when she is not working at the hospital. On Saturday, Karri introduced patients to her firmer deep muscle massage technique, which has the same benefits of a deep tissue massage without the “beat up” feeling.

“Free food and free massages – what more can you wish for when getting your annual mammogram?" asked Morgan.

According to Langley, the planning for the special “Pink at Portage” event began when we realized that women living in Portage were not scheduling annual appointments as they should be.

“We did the formal analysis and it showed that they were much lower than the national average. So we wanted to get the word out about the importance of getting your annual mammogram, yet at the same time offer them a pleasant experience while they’re doing it,” Langley said. “Mammograms are important for women’s health, as they detect early signs of serious illness,” she explained.

“It’s a breast cancer thing, it’s a health thing – and the doctor says you have to,” said local resident Pam Hardesty. “I haven’t had a mammogram since 2012, so it’s time,” added Dolores Kulp.

“The women receiving mammograms have appreciated receiving education about the importance of early detection,” shared Langley. “Early detection saves lives and that’s why we are here.”

Langley added that she hopes to expand “Pink at Portage” to an all-day event, and then work towards having it every Saturday if needed.

In the meantime, women in need of a mammogram may call 219-983-8392 to pre-register for “Pink at Portage” from 7 a.m. to noon on Aug. 16, Sept. 27, Oct. 11, Nov. 8 or Dec. 6.