I am 30 and just found out about my BRCA2+

ThirtyForever

Hi All, please hear me out...

My mother had breast cancer (stage 1) when she was 42 and my father passed away from lymphoma cancer. Due to this family history, I decided to get a genetics test done to start planning for preventative screenings etc. Come to find out that I carry BRCA2 mutation which came from my mother who also carry this gene. My mother's breast cancer came back on the other side after 10 years (DCIS this time). She will be undergoing bilateral mastectomy next month as she found out her genetics result this week.

Meanwhile, I am in the process of getting my initial screenings (mammogram, breast MRI, pelvic ultrasound, CA125) and is already being treated like a breast cancer patient by many doctors.

I am very social, love to hang out with family and friends, have few drinks at our own mini bar at home at least twice a week. However, after knowing this fact, I realize combination of BRCA2 and continued alcohol consumption will increase the risk of me getting breast cancer enormously. To a point where I might already have cancer!? It may be hard for most people to understand.. but not drinking alcohol will take a huge meaning and excitement away from my life.

This being said, that is why Bilateral mastectomy and Bilateral oophorectomy is something I am considering sooner than later.

Sorry, I feel like I'm all over the place in this post, but I hope readers will understand what of a mess I am right now. I am scared, worried, lost and angry.

I am married with one child. We were planning on a second maybe couple years down the road, but seems like we may need to speed that up a bit... I am worried though that this will pass down to my children... Maybe it's better to just stop here? It just breaks my heart thinking that this is my last call for having more children and my breasts.

Time seems to pass by so much faster than it did before and I am scared of death. Sounds funny that I am even talking like this but growing up with parents who suffered from cancer does make me take this fact to the next level.

Please help me and my mom get through this...

farmerlucy

I'm sorry about your results but so glad and relieved you can be proactive. Having witnessed our parents struggle with cancer does make it very scary (or in my case terrifying). At least you know. Now take some time to let it sink in. Your plans and dream do not have to end, with this powerful knowledge you can make some changes and then move forward as planned. I had a Mx three years ago. I lived under the spector of BC my entire life. Having my breasts removed was very freeing for me and I have never second guessed it. Are you going to mourn the changes? Of course. Will you move past this? You bet. Sending you hugs and best wishes.

Moderators

We too are sending you hugs. Yes, you will get past this, as will your mom. You have an amazing community right here.