What difference could six months make?
For Dr. Christina Hibbert, those six months could have changed everything.
Diagnosed with breast cancer at 44, Dr. Hibbert credits a follow-up mammogram with catching her cancer early. She shares that waiting another six months could have allowed her cancer to progress significantly.
Her story is a powerful reminder of why understanding your risk, following recommended screenings, and prioritizing breast health matters.
Early detection can make a life-changing difference.
In this episode of More Life for Living, host Alexander Galeazzi sits down with Dr. Christina Hibbert, clinical psychologist, author, and breast cancer survivor, to discuss early detection, the emotional impact of cancer, and what it means to move beyond surviving.
After losing her mother to breast cancer, Dr. Hibbert began getting mammograms at 27. Years later, screening helped detect her own cancer.
Following treatment, she faced multiple surgeries, complications, and chronic health challenges that reshaped her perspective on health and quality of life.
Together, they explore why understanding your family history, advocating for your health, and caring for your emotional well-being are essential parts of living well.
You’ll Learn:
- How a mammogram detected Dr. Hibbert’s breast cancer at 44
- Why she began mammograms at 27
- How family history and BRCA1 mutations influence screening decisions
- Why early detection and recommended screenings matter
- The emotional challenges of cancer treatment and recovery
- How chronic illness can affect identity and mental health
- Why psychological support matters during survivorship
- How to listen to your body without living in fear
- What it means to move beyond surviving and start living
As Dr. Hibbert shares:
“The more we learn about prevention, the more we learn about screening, the more we learn about the tools that are available. It just gives us the opportunity to catch something early, like I did.”
Subscribe to More Life for Living for conversations about prevention, longevity, and living healthier for longer.
Episode Chapters
00:39 Dr. Christina Hibbert’s Breast Cancer Journey
07:02 A Psychologist’s Perspective on Cancer
12:16 The Emotional Impact of Cancer & Survivorship
18:43 Family History & Breast Cancer Risk
19:13 How a Mammogram Detected Her Cancer
23:04 Life After Cancer: Chronic Illness & Identity
29:28 Learning to Listen to Your Body
34:08 The Importance of Early Detection & Screening
37:00 Moving Beyond Surviving to Truly Living
Continue Your Breast Health Journey
Your health is personal. Your approach to screening should be, too.
Age, family history, genetics, and personal health history can influence your breast cancer risk and screening recommendations.
At SimonMed, we provide advanced imaging, including 3D mammography and supplemental breast imaging options, to support early detection and informed health decisions.
Whether you’re scheduling your first mammogram or following up on a previous screening, understanding your options is an important step toward taking control of your health.
About Dr. Christina Hibbert
Dr. Christina Hibbert is a clinical psychologist, author, and breast cancer survivor whose work focuses on grief, trauma, emotional well-being, and self-worth.
Her book, Reluctant Warrior: A Memoir and Breast Cancer Emotional Support Guide, combines her personal cancer journey with guidance for navigating the emotional challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
About SimonMed
SimonMed is one of the largest outpatient diagnostic imaging and health technology providers in the U.S., operating 180 centers across 10 states with subspecialty-trained, board-certified radiologists.
Website: https://www.simonmed.com/
Connect With Us:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simonmed-imaging/
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs and medical decisions.
