She Got a Full-Body MRI Out of Curiosity, What It Found Was Shocking!
When Sarah Blackburn decided to undergo a full-body MRI scan, she never expected it to uncover a serious health issue that had been quietly developing for years. What began as a routine checkup led to the discovery of a potentially life-threatening splenetic artery aneurysm. Today, Blackburn is sharing her story to raise awareness and encourage others to prioritize their health.
The Discovery: A Life-Changing MRI Scan
Sarah’s journey into the unknown began with a Prenuvo full-body MRI scan. Motivated by a family history of cancer and the growing popularity of these scans, Blackburn decided to take the leap, even though she felt healthy and had no noticeable symptoms. To her surprise, the scan revealed a rare splenic artery aneurysm, a condition that’s especially dangerous for women who have had multiple pregnancies.
“I never expected to find anything,” Blackburn said. But the MRI results were clear: the aneurysm was large and required immediate attention. This diagnosis was particularly shocking because she had no symptoms or prior indications of any health concerns.
The Emotional Toll of the Diagnosis
The news sent Blackburn and her family into a period of intense anxiety and uncertainty. “Those two months leading up to surgery were the darkest time we’ve had as a family,” she recalled. The emotional strain was overwhelming, but it also highlighted the importance of having a strong support system. With the backing of her loved ones, Blackburn consulted multiple vascular surgeons, all of whom agreed that surgery was necessary to remove her spleen.
“Every doctor came to the same conclusion: it’s gotta go,” she shared. Though the MRI decision was difficult, Blackburn realized that leaving the aneurysm untreated could lead to even more severe complications.
The Decision to Undergo Surgery
Ultimately, Blackburn made the decision to undergo a splenectomy—the removal of her spleen. While the surgery was a major step, it was the safest option to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing. One of her doctors provided a push, telling her, “If this was one of my loved ones, I would tell them this is the route to take.”
Despite her fears, Blackburn found solace in joining Facebook support groups where she connected with others facing similar situations. These connections helped her feel more confident in her decision.
The Surgery and Recovery
The surgery was successful, and Blackburn is now recovering. “The surgery itself was MRI pretty easy,” she said, though she is still adjusting to life without her spleen. As she continues to research and learn about life post-surgery, Blackburn is grateful for the chance to prioritize her health.
“I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to make a choice about my health,” she shared. “Even if it was just for one person, I wanted to share my story.”
Raising Awareness Through TikTok
Inspired by her experience, Blackburn turned to TikTok to raise MRI awareness about splenic artery aneurysms and the importance of full-body scans. In her viral TikTok videos, she encourages others to take proactive steps toward their health, even when they don’t feel sick. “I hope my story helps someone live a long and healthy life,” Blackburn said.
Her message has resonated with many, as people have reached out to thank her for sharing her journey. Through her videos, Blackburn emphasizes the importance of getting checked, especially when there are no obvious symptoms.
The Importance of Reading Medical Reports
One critical lesson Blackburn learned during her journey was the importance of reading medical reports thoroughly. In 2020, an ultrasound revealed a lesion on her spleen, but she was never informed of it by her doctors. It wasn’t until she read her own radiology report that she discovered this vital information.
“Read your radiology reports,” Blackburn advises. “I didn’t think I had to. I assumed I’d be told if something was wrong, but that wasn’t the case.” This oversight led to her aneurysm growing unnoticed, ultimately bringing her to the point of surgery.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Action
Reflecting on her experience, Blackburn has no regrets about choosing to MRI undergo the full-body MRI. “I would do it again in a heartbeat,” she said. While the procedure isn’t without its costs and limitations, she encourages others to consider it as a valuable tool for early detection.
Full-body scans, like the Prenuvo scan Blackburn underwent, are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to identify potential health issues before symptoms appear. However, doctors urge caution, as the scans can sometimes lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. The scan Blackburn had cost $2,500 and is not covered by insurance, making it a significant financial decision.
For those considering a full-body scan, Blackburn offers this advice: “Be prepared that they may find something minor, but move forward with gratitude knowing you have the chance to take control of your health.”
In the end, Blackburn’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to your body, seeking medical advice when needed, and not waiting for symptoms to show before taking action.
