Jennifer C., McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania

Age: 35

I'm 35, and married with two step-children.

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

Favorite Song:
Life Like You Were Dying by Tim McGraw

Other favorites?
That song has been out for years, but since I worked on an ambulance I saw for myself how quickly life could change -- and this has been my motto. I always let everyone know how much they mean to me and I also strive to take time out of life for fun with my family.

Add your Voice

If you'd like to add your own story to our Voices of FORCE pages, please complete our Voices of FORCE form.

My journey

Found out about BRCA1+ status in April 2008. Tested because paternal grandmother is a 41-year survivor; paternal aunt was diagnosed at age 32 and again age 50; she had the genetic testing done for the rest of us. Prostate, uterine, and lung cancers also run in my family. I have not had cancer. Had an OOPH/ hysterectomy and a prophylactic mastectomy with reconstruction. PM surgery date 7/23/08. Pathology report negative and reconstruction complete using silicone implants.

The hardest part of my journey

Explaining my decision to get the testing done and then explaining my decision to have the prophylactic surgeries.

If I could do it over again

NOTHING!!

My participation with FORCE

This was the link that I referred anyone to who wanted to do their own research about what I was preparing to do and why. I think this consolidation of the data and stories helped everyone grasp the information at their own comfort level.

Other thoughts

Used to "work the streets" as a paramedic (8 years) until my back could no longer handle the lifting. Currently in school for nursing.