I found out I was carrying the BRCA 1 mutation during the 1st confinement (COVID-19), a telephone consultation to receive the results of the genetic analysis carried out shortly before the confinement. Then came the tests (twice a year, every 6 months), the worry between tests and the medical mantra that “no news, good news”.
During the first part of my journey as a mutée, I was confronted with questions, a lack of information and training, and a lack of intermediaries. It was after a second operation (as part of my prophylactic mastectomy) that I discovered the BRCA+ Network association. I wrote directly to Martina to express my gratitude for enabling women and men with this mutation to find the information and support they/we need! And here I am, sharing my story, which I’m keeping secret for lack of a sense of legitimacy.
Let’s do what’s right for us, the BRCA 1 mutation doesn’t mean that you’ll develop cancer (breast/ovarian), but the prevalence and aggressiveness appeared to me to be too great. Despite the complications, questioning and physical changes, I feel relieved to have had this operation.
BRCA+ Network asbl
