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Cancer gene testing

I just had it done. I wasn't planning on doing it... But I did and M's not answering his phone and I need to get the willies out of me. 

I've mentioned before that my mom passed away from breast cancer as did her mom at pretty young ages. My mom was 32 at her diagnosis. I talked to my gynecologist last time I was there and she recommended based on family history that I go to genetic counseling. 

M thought it was a good idea, so my appointment was this morning. After talking to the counsellor for 10 minutes, she recommended the test. Yesterday, after talking to my dad and M they both thought the test was a good idea anyway, so I agreed. The the counsellor was all okay we you can go down to the lab..... Um, oh, ok today.

So it's done and I'll know in a few weeks if I have a faulty gene. I'm praying I don't, but it's not the end of the world end if I do. 

I just feel incredibly emotional right now. I walked into the cancer center and wanted to burst into tears because of what it represents to me. 
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Re: Cancer gene testing

  • Aw Brit big hugs to you right now. And vibes that the test comes back negative. I can't imagine how scary it must be. 
    T&Y Est. 7/4/2009



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  • Hugs, Brit! That's stressful to do on your own.

    Just keep reminding yourself that having the gene doesn't mean you will get it. And if you do have it, you'll be in a better position to make sure you stay healthy.

  • Oh wow.  That would be so scary.  I'm sorry that you aren't able to get ahold of M right now.

    I think I would also have the testing done if I was in your position.  Like Kate said, just because you have the gene doesn't mean that you will necessarily end up with the cancer.  If it comes back negative you will have a huge weight lifted and you can stop always wondering.  If it does come back positive at least you are aware and you can be more proactive in ensuring you get checked frequently and get the right medical attention.

    Big hugs to you.  You are an incredibly strong person. 

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  • If the test comes back negative does that mean that there is no way you will get cancer?

    I can't imagine how emotionally draining that must of been for you.

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  • Thanks, girls. Your support means a lot. I'm at peace about the whole thing. I feel like if it's there, it's there and it's better to know about it so I can be health conscience like you all said... which is what my dad and M both said, and I agree. I'd rather not feel like I'm walking through a mine field with my health. I'd like to know exactly where the threats are because then I feel I can take steps to prevent or catch issues.

    Tara, even if it come back negative, it is not a guarantee that I'll not get cancer. It just mean that the genes they know for sure about are not the culprit. The counselor told me that regardless of the results, I'm still considered high risk and can start screenings as early as 25, which is next year for me. I'd have a mamagram and a MRI done once a year, six months apart (like the mamagram in January and the MRI in June). 

    M finally called me back and I broke down a bit. I feel better now. He couldn't figure out why I was crying at first, but then I explained that just walking into the cancer center just triggered all kinds of emotions from missing my mom to wishing she could have been the one to be tested to being slightly anxious that I'd get to know the cancer center really well. (it didn't help that the receptionist asked me if I was there for radiation. I mean, that's the first thing you ask people?!) In the end, I'm okay... ultimately, I have faith that no matter what God has it under control... positive or negative results...

     

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  • big hugs Brit! I'll be keeping you in my prayers hoping that you don't have it!
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  • I hope you don't have the gene, but you're right--even if you do, you'll just be better able to take care of yourself. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers either way. Big hugs!!
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  • You are incredibly brave and strong for even going to the appt by yourself! I will definilty be sending lots of thoughts and prayers for a negative result.
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  • Thinking of you and lots of positive vibes for a negative result!

    My mother had breast cancer and we were both talked to about having the genetic testing done since her mother also had breast cancer. My mother ended up getting the testing done and I remember the weeks before getting the results as an emotional whirlwind. I honestly can't even tell you what happened on the day I knew we were getting the results because it was such a fog. Lots of hugs for you and if you ever need to talk, you know where to find me.

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  • Hopefully these next few weeks will fly by.  You are a very strong woman!
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  • imagesstara:
    Hopefully these next few weeks will fly by.  You are a very strong woman!

    This! Yes Will be thinking of you!

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  • I can imagine how scared you must be... both of my parents have fought cancer in the past 4 years. You are so brave to have the test done, and I pray for good results for you! I can honestly say that I wouldn't want to know either way. 
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  • imagealissa2128:

    imagesstara:
    Hopefully these next few weeks will fly by.  You are a very strong woman!

    This! Yes Will be thinking of you!

    Ditto this. I admire you for taking this in your own hands 

  • You are amazing.

    Everyone woman(except one) on my fathers paternal side has died from breast cancer/tested positive of the gene. Including my grandfather. 

    I want to get the test, but I'm so terrified with what I will find out.

     You are so strong, I'm praying for you.

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  • Thanks so much girls! I really don't feel all that brave at the moment... I really appreciate all the encouragement! 

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