When found positive for the breast cancer gene, BRCA, Jessica Queller elected double prophylactic mastectomy to reduce her risk of breast cancer down to about 3%. Her sister, who also tested positive for the gene, followed suit. Their hopes are that this procedure will improve her future plans to raising her own family.
Read her remarkable story:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/131985?GT1=43...
Would you have the courage to do this, or to advise your daughter to do so, if warranted?
Jessica Queller's story
My family also carries this gene and I am currently awaiting my results. I do plan to have a mastectomy and implants if I test positive. I would rather be proactive instead of reactive down the road.
Posted: Wed., July 9, 2008, 11:29 am
Cancer Gene
I tested positive for the BRCA2 cancer gene over one year ago, I was all prepared to have the mastectomy, I even met with the surgeon and plastic surgeon, only to be told that my insurance does not cover preventative treatment. I am 39 years old, my daughters are 3 & 7, and it scares me to no end that I have to hope they catch "it" (cancer) early. It amazes me that the insurance companies can get away with this. Paying for it myself is not an option.
Posted: Mon., August 11, 2008, 02:20 pm
Cancer gene
Hi there, Doesn't it amaze you that health insurance companies sometimes can't follow the "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" adage? I can't imagine what you're going through, but we appreciate you sharing your experiences, so other women can learn. And I think most women are in the same situation as you in that paying for it ourselves wouldn't be an option.
Given that you've tested positive for the BRCA2 cancer gene and your insurance company isn't willing to cover it, have you developed a plan with your doctor for frequent testing/scans?
Posted: Tue., August 12, 2008, 08:08 am
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