Early detection is key when it comes to treating breast cancer. At Alegent Lakeside Hospital, early diagnosis is easier than ever with the opening of the new Breast Health Center.

Mary Jo Goodwin of Omaha made a lot of trips there in a short amount of time. A routine mammogram turned up an irregular shadow that needed to be biopsied. With 24 hours Medical Director Doctor John Shook told Goodwin she had breast cancer.

Goodwin said "I don't know how other people feel, but that was critical to me. Once I knew I had breast cancer, I wanted it taken care of as soon as possible."

Doctor Shook added "What we're trying to do with the Breast Health Center is make it more patient focused and try to improve delay times between screening and diagnosis and consultation and treatment because it can be a very stressful time for patients."

To reduce Goodwin's stress, Doctor Shook helped her devise a battle plan within days, surgery to remove a tumor and then radiation.

Mary Jo Goodwin said "Once they started laying out the time line and how quickly it would go I thought okay I can do this, I can get through this."

Just three months after being diagnosed, the 50-year-old mother of three feels great. She'll take Tamoxifen for the next five years, and see Doctor Shook for check ups. Still, Goodwin believes the worst is behind her.

Alegent Health plans to open the next Breast Health Center at Bergan Mercy. Eventually, all Alegent facilities will have one.