As I mentioned in this post, my mother has breast cancer. My grandmother also had breast cancer and my great-grandmother had ovarian cancer. Because of that, I had the BRCA test done. The BRCA test (pronounced "Brack-a") is a cancer risk and genetic test that will let you know if you have the BRCA1 or BRCA 2 genetic mutations. The most famous person to have this test is Angelina Jolie. She had a double mastectomy as a result of having the BRCA1 gene mutation.
I did not anticipate having either one of the gene mutations. I don't know why. I suppose I am still suffering from that invincible mentality you have in your 20's. Once needle prick, one scary phone call, and one 2 hour consultation later, I found out that I do have the BRCA1 gene mutation. After consulting with my medical team and my husband, I decided to have my remaining ovary removed (I had the other one removed due to complications with PCOS) as well as have a double mastectomy. I should note that I ELECTED to have these surgeries as they dramatically lessen my chances of developing ovarian and breast cancers. However, there were several other treatment options available to me.
I have been beside myself with upset since I learned of my mother's breast cancer diagnosis. Finding out that I have the BRCA1 gene mutation and finding out that, that means that I am over 78% more inclined to have breast cancer and over 60% more inclined to have ovarian cancer shook me so violently on the inside. I started to fall into depression. I felt hopeless and cursed.
Then, I had to remember that I am not a victim! There are so many women that are literally fighting cancer right now! I have been given the gift of prevention! I am empowered because I have knowledge. I am fortunate because I have healthcare and a treatment plan. I am lucky to have a supportive husband and family and friends that love me.
So, now, I get to go through menopause at 32. Which sucks but, you can't develop ovarian cancer with no ovaries. Also, my fibroids will shrivel and die...WHOOP! I get to pick out new boobs. They'll be perky and sit-up even when I lay on my back! There are so many silver linings that I can't possibly focus on the clouds.
Please check your breasts. If you have a family history of breast cancer, please inquire about the BRCA test. There are so many options for you. Ignorance is NOT bliss...it's a killer.
I did not anticipate having either one of the gene mutations. I don't know why. I suppose I am still suffering from that invincible mentality you have in your 20's. Once needle prick, one scary phone call, and one 2 hour consultation later, I found out that I do have the BRCA1 gene mutation. After consulting with my medical team and my husband, I decided to have my remaining ovary removed (I had the other one removed due to complications with PCOS) as well as have a double mastectomy. I should note that I ELECTED to have these surgeries as they dramatically lessen my chances of developing ovarian and breast cancers. However, there were several other treatment options available to me.
I have been beside myself with upset since I learned of my mother's breast cancer diagnosis. Finding out that I have the BRCA1 gene mutation and finding out that, that means that I am over 78% more inclined to have breast cancer and over 60% more inclined to have ovarian cancer shook me so violently on the inside. I started to fall into depression. I felt hopeless and cursed.
Then, I had to remember that I am not a victim! There are so many women that are literally fighting cancer right now! I have been given the gift of prevention! I am empowered because I have knowledge. I am fortunate because I have healthcare and a treatment plan. I am lucky to have a supportive husband and family and friends that love me.
So, now, I get to go through menopause at 32. Which sucks but, you can't develop ovarian cancer with no ovaries. Also, my fibroids will shrivel and die...WHOOP! I get to pick out new boobs. They'll be perky and sit-up even when I lay on my back! There are so many silver linings that I can't possibly focus on the clouds.
Please check your breasts. If you have a family history of breast cancer, please inquire about the BRCA test. There are so many options for you. Ignorance is NOT bliss...it's a killer.
