After being diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and undergoing a bilateral mastectomy, I can’t help but feel a perpetual shadow of fear. Even when I feel healthy, a voice in the back of my mind asks: Could something be silently lurking within?
Because of this, I was thrilled to team up with simonONE for a full-body MRI scan, so I could provide my honest feedback. MRI uses changes in magnetic fields to create images and does not use x-ray.
Why I Chose simonONE
I had an MRI back in 2020 that required a contrast injection. It was a nightmare. I had a horrific allergic reaction—a full-body rash, heart palpitations, and a feeling like I wanted to jump out of my skin. I’m actually still missing part of my left eyebrow from that rash!
I was incredibly relieved to learn that simonONE does not use injections for their MRI screenings. It is completely non-invasive, which was a huge weight off my shoulders.
What They Offer
The simonONE Body MRI screening can detect small cancers early, allowing you to seek treatment when it’s most effective. Their advanced imaging also provides a clear picture of your risk for conditions like Alzheimer’s and liver disease, helping you adjust your lifestyle now for a healthier future. They offer screenings from head to pelvis, covering over 100 body structures, and have convenient locations across the country.
It’s important to note that this a powerful screening tool, but it will not scan the spine, arms or legs. It will also not pick up very small nodules in the lungs. It’s not meant to replace other regular screening tools like blood work and colonoscopies.
The Experience
Booking was a breeze. After filling out a screening questionnaire, I was able to book with a consultant at a location near me. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a friendly staff. Bonus: they had Bugs Bunny cartoons playing in the waiting room! For some reason, this was psychologically comforting and really helped lower my anxiety.
I was led back to a changing room to undress (keeping only my underwear on) and put on a long cotton gown. Because of the high magnetic activity, you cannot have any metal on you or bring anything into the MRI room. My technician was super friendly and informative. She told me exactly what to expect, how to communicate with her from inside the machine, and even let me choose my music preference.
The Scan
I did both the Brain NeuroQuant scan and the Full Body scan, which took approximately 45 minutes. The room was lit in cool shades of blue, giving it the vibe of a swanky nightclub. I’m not claustrophobic, so I didn’t mind being in the machine. There was even a peaceful nature video playing on the ceiling to watch as time passed.
However, I actually found it more entertaining to close my eyes and listen to the machine’s “symphony.” Despite the earplugs and headphones, an MRI is very loud—clangs, knocks, and beeps. I started playing a game with myself: “What does that sound remind me of?” I heard car alarms, Tahitian drums, and plenty of sounds that reminded me of Tron and 1980s video games.
As the scan proceeded, the technician notified me which part of my body was being scanned, starting at the head and working down. I never felt any discomfort, and I absolutely loved the flow of fresh air directed toward my face.
The Results
When the scan was finished, I was told my results would be on my simonONE dashboard within a few days. I also scheduled an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner to personally review my results seven days later.
When I finally logged in to see my report, I was a little apprehensive. Given my family history of Alzheimer’s and dementia, I was nervous about the brain scan. Thankfully, everything looked good at first glance. However, the body imaging did hold some surprises. I already knew about the fibroids in my uterus, but I discovered I have some cysts on my kidneys and a hernia near my belly button!
Knowledge is Power
I just finished my in-person review yesterday with a nurse practitioner named Nicole, and it was so helpful. She put me at ease regarding the cysts and the hernia; they are things to monitor, but nothing abnormal or cancerous.
We also reviewed my NeuroQuant brain scan. I told her I was concerned because I have a parent currently battling dementia and Alzheimer’s, and my grandfather also had the disease. Nicole showed me that my hippocampus (the part of the brain monitored for Alzheimer’s) was at 98% volume, which is fantastic. She recommended regular scans in the future to ensure there isn’t a significant drop (specifically, more than 5% in one year). Catching a drop that early allows for preventative measures and early referrals.
After my consultation, I received an email with my full report, tools with visual tutorials and the option to share my report with my healthcare provider and family.
I love having the power of knowledge. I feel like I finally have more control over my future health.
Final Thoughts
The simonONE non-invasive technology makes the entire procedure easy. If your insurance won’t cover a scan like this, I truly feel it is a vital investment in your health. Catching issues early is the best way to save on future medical bills—take care of problems before they turn into “bigger” problems!
AD Click here to learn more about the simonONE scan. Use my code BOREDMOM to save $50 on your scan.
Thank you to simonONE for the opportunity to experience a brain and body MRI scan. All experiences and opinions are that of my own.
