28 Jul BRCA Gene Mutation & The Waves of Impact on Family (Video)
"What does it mean to carry the BRCA gene mutation--for myself & my family?"
2 years ago today, I learned I carry the BRCA1 genetic mutation--10 days after I'd already been diagnosed with breast cancer, and 3 days after my double mastectomy.
I knew I was at risk--my mother is a 3-time breast cancer survivor--but somehow, I never thought it would happen to ME.
So sick from chemotherapy, smiling through the suffering, wishing I could make a difference in the world again.
Until it did.
Cancer. Mastectomy. Chemotherapy. And 13 total surgeries these past 2 years, all because of the aggressive "triple negative" breast cancer I had & this genetic mutation that puts me at risk for recurrence and other cancers, too.
Now...
As I begin to heal from so much harsh treatment for so long, I am also beginning to try to comprehend what this BRCA1 diagnosis means for my family, too.
It's a LOT for a human to bear.
It's even MORE for a parent who knows this will affect her children and grandchildren for generations to come.
Thanksgiving 2020, just days after my 13th breast-cancer related surgery.
This video explains...
6 months ago, I was invited to create a video about my experience as part of a project with StoryCenter.org and the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, funded by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
This is my final video.
Watch, feel and learn with me.
Watch to see what genetic testing can DO for you or your family, how it can prevent unnecessary pain and suffering, and how it can ensure your family members never have to hear those horrible words I heard two years ago, "I'm sorry. It IS breast cancer."
Feel what it's like to know you carry a genetic mutation that increases your risk for developing breast cancer by age 70 from 13% to 72%, and the risk for developing ovarian cancer from 1.5% to 44%!
Feel what it's like to know you are also at a much higher risk for fallopian tube, peritoneal, pancreatic, colon, and skin cancer, among others.
Feel what it's like to know you've passed this high cancer risk on to your children, how to talk to them about it, and what THEY can do.
And above all, learn.
Learn about genetic testing, family history, and what it might mean for you and YOUR family.
Learn that not only girls, but BOYS also can carry this genetic mutation and be at risk for these same and also prostrate cancer.
Learn that there are preventative measures, treatments, and that knowing is POWER to do what is best for you.
Then, let me know your thoughts, below, by leaving a comment.
Together, we can prevent cancer!
Together, we can save our children and grandchildren the pain and worry I and so many others have had to face!
Together, we can educate the world on genetic mutations and the power of genetic testing!
And THAT, my friends, can make a world of difference!