breast and ovarian cancer dna

Really, I’m not sick. I’m just battling a genetic twist of fate.

I’m not sick. Not even just a little bit … So, why would I do this?

In a few hours I’ll be lying on an operating table having a “partial hysterectomy.” And I’m doing it because I can.

Or, at least, because should. I think.

The intention is to remove parts of my anatomy that might, maybe, could, possibly end up with ovarian cancer sometime in my life — due to a recently discovered genetic mutation that says so.

God bless modern science! I support it, and am grateful for such cutting-edge research and protocols.

But, it does give me pause …

How proactive and prophylactic can — or should — we be in this brave new world of medicine?

I wonder what other mutations are hiding there in my twisty DNA life story? And for that matter, do I really want to know? What other parts of me need to be cut out? Or, given such knowledge, perhaps of inoperable parts — or even low-percentage likelihoods — how would I then live the rest of my life?

Which is better: Knowledge and a proactive approach to life-threatening diseases? Or blissful ignorance?

Today, I’m choosing the former.

pink tutu

I am Not a Cancer Survivor

Nine years ago this month I recall looking at myself in the mirror and assessing the situation: I was bald. My memory was spotty. I sat down a lot more than I stood up. And I had these crazy, stop-men-in-their-tracks “Fembot” boobs (called spacers) implanted in my chest to help stretch my healing skin and tissue in preparation for breast reconstruction later that fall.

I was done with chemo. I was cancer free. But I knew I still had a lot more fight ahead of me in terms of reconstruction, rehabilitation, re-establishing my career and rebuilding a relationship with my son.

I also knew I would be forever vigilant against recurrence: I would have to see surgeons and oncologists annually for the rest of my life. From there on out, I would be on the defensive against this insidious disease.

Read More