Taking control of my life AND my Tits

Facing the decision of a prophylactic double mastectomy is a deeply personal and emotional journey for me. With supportive friends and family surrounding me somehow I still felt very alone. The more I shared my story the more I found many individuals undertake this journey to reduce their risk of breast cancer but not many seem to be talking about it. I want to share my own journey, in the hope that it can offer insight, support, and encouragement to others who may be considering or going through a similar experience. My story is one of empowerment, resilience, and the importance of self-care in the face of a life-altering choice.

My journey began with a thorough understanding of my risk factors. For me, a family history of breast cancer weighed heavily on my mind. My mom had a double mastectomy at 34, my grandmother died at 32, all of my grandmother's sisters and my grandfather's sisters (on my mother's side) developed breast cancer at a young age, and more recently my dad's sister was diagnosed. Genetic testing revealed that while I did not carry a BRCA gene mutation (the most commonly talked about and studied gene associated with breast cancer) I was still at a very high risk. My mother's genetic testing revealed it to be negative for the BRCA gene as well. Which could only mean there was some other gene or a combination of genes that were causing such a high number of breast cancer in my family (but we will talk more about this at some point), which significantly increased my risk of developing breast cancer. I've had this information for quite some time and have been getting regular or semi regular imaging done since I was 24 as a preventative measure but it was by no means consistent. Why you ask..? Laziness? The feeling of "that would never happen to me. I'm young and healthy"? Money? (if you're going through this journey you KNOW how expensive testing can be and how AWFUL insurance can be) Life? The reality is, it was probably a combination of everything and some underlying fear. Nonetheless, in December of 2022 I decided I wanted to be more vigilant about my breast health and I guess that's where the real journey began.

As I walked out of the imaging building after having a mammogram and MRI with contrast for the first time in 3 years, I received the call I was fearing. When they call you as you're walking out of the building, you know it's not good news. Long story short, they told me the imaging "didn't look great" and I needed to call scheduling to get in ASAP to get a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound. My stomach dropped and I feared the worst. I called scheduling a second later to find out the soonest appointment available was 2 months out...and this was for URGENT imaging. This is where I'll say and can't stress enough… ADVOCATE for yourself! Be “annoying,” you deserve to be heard! I called every morning to ask about cancellations and was luckily able to get in 3 weeks later (still INSANE and not ideal when you're losing sleep and anxious but better than 2 months) I wish I could say this is where I finally received the news that I didn't have cancer but it isn't. “We’re concerned. There are 4 small masses on your left breast ” next up… biopsy. And finally 3 months after my first imaging appointment… “We have found an abnormal/atypical papilloma with precancerous cells found.” Deep breathe. I didn’t have cancer! BUT here were my options going forward. I could: 1. Stick me head in the sand and not worry about it (not an option), 2. Come in every 6 months for imaging with probable biopsies for several years UNTIL I got cancer, OR 3. Have a prophylactic double mastectomy. Armed with this knowledge, I embarked on the path of making the biggest decision I have ever had to make:

The decision to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy. I consulted with medical professionals, genetic counselors, and sought support from friends and family. Ultimately, I decided that taking control of my health and reducing the risk of breast cancer was the right choice for me.

Preparing for surgery involved not only physical readiness but also emotional and mental preparation. I reached out to support groups, therapists, and friends who had been through similar experiences. Their guidance and empathy were invaluable in helping me navigate the emotional rollercoaster. A strong support system is vital during this journey. I leaned on my loved ones for emotional support, and their unwavering presence provided me with the strength to move forward. Now I needed to find the RIGHT surgeon and plastic surgeon for me. This was not an easy decision. If you can, take your time and interview multiple people. Dr. Rosemary Morgan, a board certified and fellowship trained breast surgical oncologist was an easy choice (she's amazing and I would HIGHLY recommend her if you're in Denver area). It took me longer to land on my plastic surgeon but finally found someone I LOVED! Dr. Christopher Williams. On top of being an amazing plastic surgeon, he is also super passionate about nerve grafting. A cutting edge technology being used to maintain protective response in my chest with the possibility of maintaining my ability to feel. My dream team was assembled. August 29th I'm ready for you