45 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com with other BRCA positive women,” she advised. “Meet them – ask about their journey.” Cribbs echoed that advice. “No matter if it’s BRCA, CHEK2 or any other gene mutation, join a support group,” she urged. “I found several through Facebook for prophylactic mastectomy and for CHEK2, and they have been absolute lifesavers. It makes you feel less alone.” In addition to finding support through others, it’s also important to advocate for yourself. Burns reminded us, “We have to be our own advocates and make the best decision with the information and at the right time.” Do your own research. Ask tons of questions. Find physicians who are knowledgeable and trustworthy. Get second opinions if something doesn’t sit right with you. Talk with other women who have lived it. And perhaps most importantly, understand your own individual risk. For these women (and countless more) family history of breast cancer wasn’t abstract. They watched as cancer took people they loved too soon. It served as a reminder to keep fighting for their own loved ones. Hicks referenced her Aunt Lori, who passed away at 44. “My mom’s youngest sister was fighting cancer essentially her children’s entire lives. She was absolutely adored by our entire family, and a day doesn’t go by that we don’t all think about how much Aunt Lori would adore her five granddaughters.” Cribbs also looks back while continuing to push forward for her loved ones. “My mom was young and she has missed so much,” she mused. “I didn’t want to do that to my girls. If having the surgery means that I can dodge cancer, it’s worth it to be able to see them grow up.” Their choices weren’t simply about avoiding cancer. They were deeply connected to wanting more time with the people they loved. If you’re facing decisions ahead about genetic testing, these women know firsthand the weight you are feeling. Surgery doesn’t erase everything, but it certainly changes the scene. After surgery, Burns returned to the hospital where she had spent years undergoing mammograms and MRIs. She recalled, “I felt like I could take a deep breath and not have an intense fear of what my scans would show.” Burns, Hicks and Cribbs didn’t have identical paths or even identical genetic mutations. But after hearing from doctors and other women, their stories eventually concluded with the decision to proceed with surgery. What courage they’ve shown. What strength they’ve demonstrated. For the women opening a genetic test result today, know you are not alone. You are allowed to grieve. You are allowed to wait. health & wellness Jenny Hicks and family. General and Cosmetic Dentistry for the Entire Family 843-972-9700 1122 Professional Lane, Mt. Pleasant, SC THE WOMEN BEHIND THE SMILES AT WANDO FAMILY DENTISTRY Every smile begins and ends with exceptional care WandoFamilyDentistry.com
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