Hi everyone—Jessica Johnson here. I’m honored to be part of The Skin Games family as a judge and past finalist. I’m also the owner of Living Beautifully Spa & Academy.
Today I want to share something personal not to center my story, but to share a lesson I hope will help others.
In June, I went in for a routine mammogram—one I almost skipped because life was busy and I felt perfectly healthy. That test found breast cancer I didn’t know was there.
It was small. Caught early. Treatable.
That one appointment may have saved my life.
That’s why I’m using my voice here—not to dwell on fear, but to share hope, information, and a call to action for everyone reading.
Why Early Detection Matters
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. But survival rates are dramatically higher when it’s found early.
When breast cancer is detected before it spreads beyond the breast, the 5-year survival rate can exceed 99%.
But here’s the challenge: early stages often have no symptoms you can feel or see. That’s why routine screening matters so much.
Who Should Get Screened?
Screening guidelines can vary, so always talk with your healthcare provider about what’s right for you. But general recommendations include:
- Women aged 40–44: Option to start annual mammograms if you wish.
- Women aged 45–54: Annual mammograms are typically recommended.
- Women 55+: Every 1–2 years, depending on personal and family history.
If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may suggest starting even earlier or using additional screening methods like MRI.
Know Your Body
Mammograms are critical, but self-awareness matters too.
Do monthly self-exams. Look for:
- New lumps
- Changes in size or shape
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Nipple changes or discharge
- Unexplained pain
If anything feels off, don’t wait. Advocate for yourself and see your provider.
My Personal Advice
As an esthetician, business owner, and TSG judge, I know we’re a community of caregivers. We look after our clients, our families, our teams.
But please—look after yourself, too.
- Don’t put off your mammogram.
- Don’t tell yourself you’re too busy or too young.
- Don’t wait for symptoms.
I felt healthy. I had no warning signs. That test was the only reason I found out early.
A Note of Encouragement
Being diagnosed with breast cancer is scary. I won’t pretend it isn’t. But early detection changes the whole story. It gives you options, time, and hope.
I’m still seeing my medical team to plan treatment. There’s fear in the unknown, but I’m meeting it with faith, love, and a fierce commitment to healing.
I’m sharing this because I don’t want anyone to say, “I wish I hadn’t waited.”
Let’s Look Out for Each Other
Please—talk to your friends, your colleagues, your clients. Normalize these conversations.
Because early detection really does save lives. It may have saved mine.
How You Can Walk With Me.
- Donate to the GoFundMe created by my team to help. Donate Here 👉 https://gofund.me/cbe2fb27
- Take one of my online classes—they’re available now and continue to support my work while I heal. https://lbaestheticacademy.thinkific.com/collections