Newbie to BRCA1 positive result.

Connect to people like me Family history, genes and cancer
1

Hello, 

I recently tested positive for brca1 gene mutation. My mom had bc and so did my paternal grandma. I’m new to this whole thing since my mom kept her cancer and procedures a secret from us, I was a teen at the time. I’m thinking of getting preventative mastectomy and reconstruction, but I don’t even know where to start. My mother is against me getting the surgeries, she thinks the recovery isn’t worth it. I’m 31 and I’ve decided that it’s what I want for myself and my kids, so their mom can be here for them. If anyone has any advice, it would be greatly appreciated.

2

@Mrs. Diaz  - first of all I want to welcome you to this lovely forum, although I’m sorry you find yourself here. This area of the forum isn’t always so active so you might also consider posting in say the surgery section if you don’t get any answers. You might also like to give the lovely nurses on here a call on Monday to chat it through. They are very supportive and knowledgable and can help point you in the right direction, and discuss your thoughts with you.

I’m afraid I personally can’t help with the BRCA1 gene as I wasn’t tested, but I had a mastectomy with an implant reconstruction and am happy to answer any questions related to that surgery if it would help.

Have you spoken to your GP about this yet? 

Sending hugs and my very best wishes to you, Evie xx

3

@Mrs. Diaz  

Hi, sorry your going through this. 

I have the BRCA2 gene mutation and I’m 33 years old so similar age to you. 

I think if surgery feels right for you then you should go for it. 

I absolutely understand where you are coming from as unfortunately I was diagnosed with cancer before I knew I had the mutation. It’s obviously a really personal decision but if I could have had preventative surgery I would have. The risks are very high and cancer treatment is a long old road.

In fact I have just had an oophorectomy and I’m due my mastectomy later in the year. 

I think you need to have a discussion with a specialist and then you can make a more informed decision. There are so many reconstruction options now. When you got your diagnosis did they give any information on this? 

Pips xx