WE ARE BRIGHT PINK

Nicole
My great-grandmother lived until she was 98 but her daughters died when they were 31, from breast cancer, and 37 from uterine cancer. It's possible my grandmother was misdiagnosed, that she actually had ovarian cancer. My aunt was suspicious after surviving breast cancer and decided to get genetically tested when she completed her treatment in the fall of 2006.

Before I settled on testing for the BRCA gene, I did countless hours of research and simultaneously took out life insurance. That time period was difficult, it weighed on me constantly yet I didn't feel justified to be so preoccupied or sad without even knowing my results let alone having cancer. In the weeks that followed my positive test results, I allowed myself to push deeper into obsession, sadness, anger, and jealousy. I felt really broken and alone those first weeks. My sister sent me a link to Bright Pink's website, the peer support with other high risk women, in addition to seeking out professional counseling, helped me embrace this journey. I also resumed running and surfing, both passions of mine to reduce stress.

I reached the decision to have a prophylactic mastectomy in the spring of 2008. Prior to surgery, I had a very hip naked photo shoot to always remember my original frame. I know that although it was difficult to navigate, my choice was sound and the best solution for me. And yes, they look truly gorgeous.

I'll have an oophorectomy later in my thirties, for now I'll continue my ovarian cancer high-risk screens. Having a predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer is not easy but ultimately the knowledge gained is powerful, life altering and hopefully prolonging. I have always carried a BRCA2 mutation, a genetic test didn't give it to me but it did reveal my secret. It may be cliché but this knowledge has opened up my eyes to more moments. I hope to offer other women struggling thru these moments, a caring shoulder to lean on, a hand to hold and to simply listen to your story. Thank you to all the women who listened to mine.