Medical Sonography student makes life-changing discovery

Madison Coleman, introduced to the field of sonography by a family friend, could never have anticipated that her chosen career would ultimately lead to the discovery of her need for a life-changing procedure.

MEDICAL FIELD CAREER ASPIRATIONS

Growing up in Jacksonville, NC, Madison found herself uncertain about her career aspirations. In search of direction, she decided to enroll at her local community college, where she took general education courses while contemplating her path forward.

During high school, she worked as a receptionist for an optometrist, which sparked her interest in the medical field. Although she enjoyed assisting patients, her aversion to needles led her to realize that a nursing career wasn’t the right fit for her.

Madison learned about sonography from a family friend and became interested in the field. This prompted her to transfer to CFCC to pursue a career in medical sonography.

“I have a passion for helping people and a desire to work in healthcare,” commented Madison. “I chose CFCC because they have an outstanding sonography program that prepares students for success in their careers.”

CRUCIAL CATCH

In the initial year of the sonography program, students practice using equipment on each other or volunteers before progressing to clinical work with professional technicians. Madison volunteered as a patient for the thyroid scan portion of the training.

During this scan, three nodules were identified on Madison’s thyroid. Following the discovery, Madison’s instructor recommended that she seek further medical guidance.

Even though she was not experiencing symptoms, Madison listened to her instructor and scheduled an exam with her doctor. A biopsy concluded that Madison had thyroid cancer and she underwent surgery to remove her thyroid.

Fortunately, the cancer was caught before it spread to any other part of Madison’s body.

“This experience proved to me I was meant to be in this program,” Madison shared. “I didn’t have any symptoms. While it was crazy to have this happen, I am glad I volunteered that day. I’m grateful to my classmates and instructors for identifying the nodules.”

Up Next

Following Madison’s anticipated May 2024 graduation, she hopes to work as an ultrasound technician in a hospital setting. She feels that a hospital will allow her to continue building her knowledge base by performing a variety of scanning procedures.

Madison is excited about her future in the sonography field. She credits CFCC with preparing her for success.

“The Medical Sonography program has provided me with many opportunities to grow as a person and as a future sonographer,” Madison said. “Every instructor in the program has helped me gain confidence in my skills and been supportive every step of the way.”

Learn more about CFCC’s Medical Sonography and Cardiovascular Sonography programs. The application period opens on January 11, 2024.