Considering Genetic Testing for BRCA1/BRCA2 Mutations

Hi sis, My mom passed away from breast cancer in 2019, and I knew I had to get tested for BRCA1/BRCA2. I was dreading getting tested, what if I had it? The anxiety and the fear kept increasing day by day. I know how it feels, I am so sorry...I feel like giving you a big hug right now. At a point, I said ‘heck it’ because the thought of not knowing was worse than the thought of possibly having it. So, I took the plunge and got tested. When the results came back, I was relieved to find out I didn't have the mutation. Now, I know that's not everyone's story, and I'm not gonna sugarcoat it. If you do test positive, it can be tough to process. But, here's the thing: knowing your genetic status can give you options. You can start screening earlier, consider preventive surgeries, or explore other risk-reducing measures. Please go for it! And if you have further questions we can all help out here.

Yes, do it. That gene almost guarantees breast cancer some time in your lifetime. And there are also other genes which are also very important for determining precautionary screenings (insurance coverage wise). Plus, should you end up having breast cancer, it will speed up the process involved in deciding the best treatment. Ex: I have Chek2 del exkn 9-10. So that is a dramatic chance of having breast cancer again. If this technology was availabke way back when i had my first breast cancer, we would have opted to have the double mastectomy right away at the first cancer. Instead, i endured harmful radiation treatment and chemo (pretty sure the full breast biopsy would have proved was not needed). Additionally, i had years of autoimmune issues before and after each of the cancers. Those were/are seriously worse than the cancer.

Being afraid of things you don't know can be one of the most unpleasant experiences. It's always better to check

i get it, I went through with the BRCA testing because I wanted to know my risk. Finding I was positive for a mutation was scary. but knowing has given me a sense of control.