Today was my second cancer-related appointment this week. Two cancer appointments in one week seems like two too many, but this one really wasn't bad. I gathered together my 12 years of mammograms and popped off to see the breast specialist. It was a bit surprising to me as I never knew there was something such as a breast specialist but apparently there is and she is a kind woman who thinks I should definitely have the genetic testing performed.
I have been SO on the fence about the genetic testing. I am not quite sure that I am the type of person who can go happily about my life knowing that there are a LOT of mutant genes floating around in my DNA. But the good doctor had some very convincing points mostly concerning the fact that if I do test positive for the gene then there are more treatment options available to me. The most significant option is to have your ovaries removed, thereby significantly decreasing your chances of ovarian cancer as well as breast cancer. Now I certainly have not decided that I would have my ovaries removed but since I no longer have any need of them I would consider it. The prophylactic mastectomy would take a lot more thought.
I've decided that I will go ahead and contact a high risk program which will allow me to talk to a counselor and decide whether or not to go forward with the testing. I need to clearly know the pros and cons of a positive test result before I can move forward. I am working under the assumption that the result will be negative since my sister tested negative and many people with higher risks for breast cancer do not have the gene. But you just never know.
I feel better having had an "expert" look at the mammograms and tell me what the state of the art is right now. She sat and talked to me for 20 or 30 minutes and told me that she would follow up with me. A good doctor. I am fortunate. And thankful.
Posted by grrlTravels at January 21, 2009 2:42 PMGood luck as you decide, A. I had the BRCA1 gene test two years ago and thankfully my "50% chance" fell on the good side. But it was a stressful time, and a lengthy period of discernment about testing/what I would do if I turned up positive. Honestly? I am glad I did it.
I am here to talk if you want to. I understand how hard it is to make the decision.
Thinking of you, A.
Posted by: Michelle at January 31, 2009 1:25 PMI had the test about 15 years ago. (I'm 42.) My sisters tested negative and I tested positive. So, now, everyone worries about me, which is not ideal. But I get screened for cancer every six months, a trans/v ultrasound and alternating mammograms and MRIs. I had a baby last year, and am finally ready to have my ovaries out this summer. I don't want to do the masectomy; and recently one of the doctors said they don't recommend that so much anymore, because it turned out to be harder psychologically than had been expected. But she is just one doctor, maybe other people are still recommending it, and it's a personal decision anyway. It's hard, one of the things she said is that breast cancer that is caught early is really treatable. And I felt like, yeah, but chemo is really awful and has permanent effects. It's not just about not dying. So, maybe I am still on the fence about the masectomy!
Good luck, and I'm glad you saw a good doctor.
Posted by: cherylc at February 9, 2009 1:31 PM