In 2016, my aunt passed away at the age of 62 due to the progression of pancreatic cancer, while she was in complete remission from colon cancer (surgically treated at age 43) and breast cancer (surgically treated at age 55).
Following her death, and in view of our family history, the medical team identified that she was a carrier of the BRCA1 genetic mutation. My father and my cousin sought genetic counselling to determine whether they were carriers. My father tested positive. My two sisters and I then underwent genetic testing. I tested positive as well. I was 42 years old at the time. The geneticist advised me to undergo an oophorectomy as soon as possible and to start intensive breast surveillance (MRI and breast examinations every six months). A few months later, I entered surgically induced menopause. I kept my IUD to avoid oral progesterone and began oestrogen therapy.
When life’s challenges accumulate, the risk of cancer creates an additional burden of stress, anxiety and emotional fatigue, which can interfere with professional life.
It feels like a sword of Damocles hanging over one’s head — a constant threat, even when everything seems to be going well.
After several years of regular follow-up and long discussions with a psychologist, I chose to undergo a preventive double mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. Some people tried to dissuade me, considering it a form of mutilation or an attack on my femininity. I gathered my courage and decided to confirm my choice.
During the biopsy, a carcinoma in situ was found in the residual breast tissue of my left breast. This discovery reassured me that I had made the right decision.
In a difficult family context, the subsequent reconstructive surgeries (several lipofilling procedures) were physically and emotionally challenging. My relationship with my body, femininity and intergenerational transmission was deeply affected.
At the age of 49, my gynaecologist strongly recommended stopping hormone replacement therapy. One month after discontinuing HRT, I experienced very unpleasant symptoms that affected both my personal and professional life: sleep disturbances, anxiety, mood disorders, hot flashes, …
Today, at 50 years old, I wonder whether my early menopause is partly responsible for the presence of osteoarthritis in several of my joints. It seems to have played a significant role in the development and worsening of more widespread osteoarthritis. Its impact on my quality of life and the cost of conservative treatments weigh heavily.
At times, I ask myself whether I made the right choice in opting for these preventive surgeries, but I feel more reassured by the reduction in cancer risk. I continue to take care of my lifestyle (exercise, anti-inflammatory diet, …) and feel deeply grateful for the follow-up provided by specialised doctors.
I chose to become an ambassador to raise awareness among the general public and to support people who are affected.
BRCA+ Network asbl
