"If you see something, say something" becomes "if you feel something, do something" when it comes to your health. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder to trust your body’s signals and take action. For Brooke Baugh, Director of Development and Programs at the Northeast Hospital Authority & Foundation, this philosophy fuels Project Mammogram, a life-saving initiative dedicated to early detection, education, and preventative care in the fight against breast cancer.
At the heart of Project Mammogram lies a commitment to ensuring that no one in the community is left behind. Established in 2001 with generous support from the Kingwood Women’s Club, the program provides free 3D screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, and follow-up treatments to those who qualify. Serving residents across East Montgomery, North Harris, and Liberty counties, it is a lifeline for the uninsured and underinsured, offering them a chance for timely intervention and potentially life-saving care.
For LaTonya, a married mother of four, this lifeline came just in time. Like many busy moms, she was so focused on taking care of her family that she ignored her own health concerns. When she discovered a lump and began experiencing persistent breast pain, she finally sought help at the ER. The physician immediately recommended a biopsy and referred her to Project Mammogram. Uninsured and terrified, she turned to Google, hoping for a solution. She found hope right in her own community. Thanks to Project Mammogram, LaTonya received the care she desperately needed. In mid-2024, she rang the bell—a triumphant moment marking the end of her chemotherapy treatments. Now, after completing radiation and starting maintenance medications, she reflects on the gift of time: more time with her family, more moments to cherish, and more memories to make. “If you see something, say something. If you feel something, do something. And if you need help, Project Mammogram will be there for you,” she shares.
Early detection is crucial in the fight against breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is caught early and remains localized, the 5-year survival rate is an astounding 99%. Through regular mammograms, self-exams, and clinical screenings, Project Mammogram ensures that individuals who might otherwise lack access to these services have the opportunity to catch cancer early, saving lives and offering peace of mind.
The program’s impact is profound. Each year, Project Mammogram provides around 800 screenings, detecting 6 to 12 cases of cancer and changing lives in the process. Since its inception, it has served over 11,000 residents, proving time and again the life-saving power of early detection and the dedication of the Project Mammogram team. Beyond screenings, the program is committed to raising awareness. Brooke and her team host free educational sessions at community events, local businesses, churches, and more, spreading knowledge and resources to ensure that every individual is empowered to take charge of their health.
For those looking to prioritize their health, getting screened is simple: Call Project Mammogram at 281-540-6443. Brooke Baugh and her team stand ready to ensure that no one fights alone, offering care, education, and support to those who need it most.
"If you see something, say something. If you feel something, do something. And if you need help, Project Mammogram will be there for you."