A Garden City cancer survivor wants others who may be going through the same thing to make sure they’re still getting the screenings they need, even during the coronavirus pandemic.

Two years ago, Julie Nappi beat breast cancer after going through chemo, surgery and radiation. But because of coronavirus concerns, she had to wait several months to get her cancer checkup, and when the results came back she was told she needed a biopsy.

"That feeling of, 'Oh my gosh only if I had gone earlier,'" says Nappi.

The screening showed that what she had was benign, but Nappi says her close call led her to speak out about telling Long Islanders to get the cancer health screenings they need.

"It could be the difference between life and death, chemo and no chemo, pain and no pain," she says.

At Nassau University Medical Center, the mammography van is parked in front. County officials say it is one way they are making it easier for patients to get the screenings they need.

"If anyone has a problem, we are open for business, it is safe to come back to the hospital now," says Dr. Susan Gottlieb.

And medical professionals agree - there is no time to waste when getting your checkups.

"If you have delayed your screening for three to six months, you are in a higher risk category," says Reyna Machado, with the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline. "We know mammograms save lives."

To contact the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, call 800-877-8077.