I’m a BRCA 1+ previvor. I do not have breast or ovarian cancer. I do however have a gene mutation that increase my risks of both dramatically.
I wanted to start this blog so that I can remember all the emotions and fears and concerns I had while I go through this journey towards breast reconstruction as well as future oopherectomy plans. I have three children who might carry this genetic mutation. Two of those children are daughters who might also have to go through this process someday. I want them to have a record of what I felt and how I faced and conquered my fears. I want them to know how I went through the decision making process. I want them to know what was hard for me. I want them to see me feel great about the decisions I make. I’m sure 20 or 30 years from now things will be dramatically different in scientific discoveries and research regarding breast cancer. That doesn’t however mean that they won’t have to go through the same decision to choose to lose their breasts to lessen their risks.
I wanted this blog to allow my friends a window into my mind and heart as I go through this process. I hope that this blog will keep everyone up to date on what’s going on with me and how I’m feeling about it.
And lastly, I wanted to write this blog for anyone out there wondering about hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Anyone who wants to find out their BRCA status or who has already been tested. I want others to know about reconstruction options and all that I have been through. Always feel welcome to contact me and ask any questions you like. I am here to hold your hand through your journey too!
Why “Say It Anyway” you ask? I have found that hereditary breast cancer is something people are very afraid to talk about. Women are afraid of insurance issues. Women are afraid of what others will think when you choose to have prophylactic surgery. Women are afraid of finding out if they have a genetic mutation. I decided I was not going to be afraid to talk about it and discuss my journey and say what was going on in my life…I would “Say It Anyway”.
Thanks for reading.
-Julie
