Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Let me just dive right in to it

I have the BRCA2 Mutation.  According to all the testing and paperwork I have an 84% chance of having Breast Cancer by the time I'm 70.  My mother had Breast Cancer in 2008.  Her birth mother died at the age of 36 from Breast Cancer.   I don't want to take chances.

This November I will be having a preventative Bi-Lateral Mastectomy. I've known about the genetic mutation since 2008 and since then I always knew I'd do this surgery.  I'm no longer breast feeding and it was time to go to my breast surgeon and discuss it. 

There are worries and questions and in a true to myself nature I have purchased a new notebook to keep notes, thoughts, questions and even pictures about this surgery together.  I'm getting a lot of the "why are you doing this? You don't have cancer yet" responses from people.  There is no guarantee that even with regular testing they'd catch something early enough, or be able to cure it.  I'm not willing to take that chance when it comes to my health and my family. 
I have contacted a social worker and will be joining some support groups.

Since writing has always been important for me I will chronicle my journey through this.  We'll be setting the official surgery date soon (we wanted to make sure our timing worked when it came to family because I will need help for at least 2 month post op).

2 comments:

Barbara L said...

You have to make the choices you feel comfortable with. I am here for you. Sounds like you have gathered the information and made an informed choice.

Barbara L said...

You have to make the choices you feel comfortable with. I am here for you. Sounds like you have gathered the information and made an informed choice.