Jennifer C., San Diego, California

Age: 37

I'm 37 and single with no kids.

I'm more than my risk… some fun facts about myself:

Favorite book / authors:
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Other favorites?
My Mom was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer about the same time as Randy Pausch and his story, faith, energy etc. is amazing. My Mom was the same way. If I can have half of that, I will do great.

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My journey

Found out about BRCA1+ status more than 2 years ago. I tested because my Mom, Grandmother and Aunt had breast cancer. Aunt died from ovarian cancer. Pancreatic cancer also runs in my family. I have not had cancer. Had OOPH/ hysterectomy and prophylactic mastectomy with silicone implants put in place immediately following mastectomy utilizing alloderm.

The hardest part of my journey

Emotions. No one to talk to personally (on the couch with a glass of wine) who understands.

If I could do it over again

I would not do anything differently.

My participation with FORCE

This was the only source I found that provided the information I needed and showed that others were going through the same thing that I was/am.

Other thoughts

I believe that I made the right decision for me, but I understand why people would choose not to get tested and undergo prophylactic measures.