BRCA: The Good 'Ol Breast Specialist

Yesterday was the big day. I finally had my appointment with the Breast Specialist to talk about my BRAC2 positive gene. I thought the day would never come and when it did, I kind of didn't want it to. I knew that the doctor would answer my tough questions, but I also knew that this appointment would open the door to many more appointments. And, it did.

Yesterday afternoon, I stopped by to visit one of my best friends who is quarantined at her house while undergoing radiation for thyroid cancer. This woman is amazing! We met over 20 years ago and now we sit and have way to many discussion about cancer. I told her that I knew I was anxious about the meeting because my back was tight. She could sympathize. She asked if I had written down my questions. I had not. I had plenty of questions to ask the doctor, but maybe if I didn't write them down then the appt wouldn't happen and I could just go about my day. She could sympathize.

Needless to say, the appt time came and my husband and I went ... with my spiral notebook and lots of questions. The doctor was great! She answered every question we had and then some. So, here's what we know at this point...

• She confirmed that I'm very high risk to develop breast cancer (87%) and ovarian cancer (55%).
• Because my mom had breast cancer at age 41, my risk started at age 31 (I'm now 34).
• She felt a couple of cysts in my breasts so she's scheduling an MRI to check everything out. She did an ultrasound right there and she didn't seem too concerned by the cysts, but we need the MRI for my records anyway.
• She advised me to find out the results to my ovary ultrasound that I had 2-3 weeks ago. I had completely forgotten about that appt, which is not like me. When I call to check on those results then I will also schedule an appt with my OB to discuss a full hysterectomy.
• A full hysterectomy will lower my breast cancer risk by 50%.
• A full mastectomy will lower my breast cancer risk by 90%.
• If I choose to do the surgeries, then it's better to do them sooner than later, while I'm young and healthy.
• She is scheduling an appt with a plastic surgeon so that we can discuss the option of a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery.

So, my friends, that's were we stand. One appt down and many more to come. After the appt, my husband and I went to dinner so that we could discuss everything before picking up the girls. Our main focus was coming up with a list of questions for the plastic surgeon. I mean, it's not every day that you have to decide whether or not to cut off your boobs and get new ones to save your life. That's huge!


When I woke yesterday morning, I had these two verses on my mind:

• Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you', declares the Lord. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future."
• Psalm 29:11 - "The Lord gives strength to his people. The Lord blesses his people with peace."

My devotional for yesterday was also very fitting. This excerpt is from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I highly recommend this book!

• Come to me and rest. I am all around you, to bless and restore. Breathe Me in with each breath. The way ahead of you is very steep. Slow down and cling tightly to My hand ... Lift up empty hands of faith to receive My precious Presence. Light, Life, Joy, and Peace flow freely through this gift. When your focus turns away from Me, you grasp for other things ... Return to Me: regain my Presence.
• Matthew 11:28-29 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."