Vicky, Hawley, MN

Age: 52

Tested pos. for BRCA1 and BRCA2 2007. Choose increased surveillance and complete hysterectomy. Had a double mastectomy in Aug 2009,w saline implants

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

Favorite TV / Movies:
The Notebook

Favorite Quote:
I can do everthing through him who gives me strength Phil 4:13

Favorite Song:
Held-Natalie Grant

Other favorites?
Humor and faith in God. Both has been my strength through all this. I have laughed alot when I could find humor. I have cried alot and turned to God at the darkest times. I know I have been very lucky!

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My journey

My mother died of breast cancer at age 46. I was only 17.My mother had 2 younger sisters. Each had breast cancer once in their early 50's. Then one died of ovarian cancer. One died of Inflammatory breast cancer. I tested positive for BRCA1 and BRCA2 in 2007. I was 49. I choose increased surveillance and a complete hysterectomy. I was sent to an Oncologist for risk assestment. I saw him about every 6 months. I had either mammogram or breast MRI's every 6 months. Plus a yearly PX. In Aug 2009 started having pain and swelling in my right breast. Had a breast MRI. Had an abnormality they thought could be cancer. I was advised to have a double mastectomy ASAP. I did not have cancer. I did have Atypical ductal hyperplasia. In my case they felt was a precancerous condition. I did not have to have chemo or radiation. I have had tissue expanders and saline implants.

The hardest part of my journey

I had so much fear about pain and needing care from double mastectomy. It was not that painful nor did I need that much care. It was also so tough losing my mother and her 2 sisters.

If I could do it over again

I would have had the double mastectomy before I had to worry I had cancer. I wish I could have talked to more women who had been through this.

My participation with FORCE

I started reading the stories about a year ago. I had so much admoration of the women who shared their stories

Other thoughts

I am so thankful I had a husband who has been so loving and supportive through this journey. I am also thankful for the support of family and friends who have stood by me. Owe much graditude to my Oncology Doctor who helped me make all the right decisions.