Cancer survivors should be spared pat-downs

To the editor:

Hello Rep. Sharon Cissna:

I am so proud of your decision to stand your ground to not participate in the TSA full-body scans in Seattle. This new scanning equipment is not only an invasion of our privacy on all levels, it singles out those of us who have already experienced more than our share of invasions of our private parts through cancer.

I, too, am a breast cancer survivor and just yesterday, Feb. 20, was subjected to my first full-body scan revealing an “anomaly” that created a so-called “need” for a full-body pat-down. Even after explaining the mastectomy, I was still given a pat down.

I found it ironic that they patted down my body, including the groin area, and never touched the suspect area from the scan, the breast in question. How did that check the anomaly?

Finally, I did not even know you could — nor was given the option of — opting out of the scan. These choices are not explained to you. Then when I requested a private screening, I was told they were very busy and I would have to wait and I could miss my flight if I opted for a “private” pat down. Needless to say, I was shocked, but felt I had no choice.

I would very much like to start a statewide campaign to get signatures from breast cancer survivors for a petition to not allow breast cancer survivors to be singled out by TSA for more invasive pat-downs. I need a voice, and I find it wonderful — but unfortunate — that you had the very same experience on the same day I did.

What can I do? I need to be heard and I need this to change. Tell me how I can help.

Corky Champagne

Wasilla