To test or not to test? That is the question...

Hi! I am triple positive with a really strong history of BC and BRCA2 in the family. It was almost a given that I was BRCA 2 positive.

I was tested and crazily - I'm not positive (in fact the genetics counsellor was in shock more than I was, given my family history).

I also have two sons (although mine are only 1 and 3) and for me it was a really significant relief that I couldn't have passed that gene defect on to them. So if you are negative, it might be a comfort for you. It was for me.

But more importantly, if you are positive the BRCA 2 gene is also linked to prostate cancer in men so that's important to know if you have boys - they need to be as careful about their prostates as we are about our breasts, if they carry the gene!

Whatever you decide I hope your treatment goes well! xx

Wow...thanks for sharing...you certainly are covering all bases!

I want to see my kids grow up too....I hope it all goes well for you!

Lisa

Hi

After being diagnosed with triple negative BC back in January (followed by lumpectomy and chemo), I immediately requested the genetics test. My reasoning was my strong family history, young age (43 at the time), type of BC and the fact that I had two daughters that I also needed to factor into any decisions I made. I also have three nieces.

I tested positive for BRCA2 which in very simple terms meant that I had a very high chance of the BC returning in my other breast plus an increased chance of ovarian cancer.

So the test results influenced my next decisions. I am young. I want to do everything possible to ensure the cancer doesn't come back. I want to be here for my children for a long time yet. So I made the choice to have a double mastectomy and immediate reconstruction - that happened a week ago and I am currently recovering from that. A little further down the track I will have my ovaries removed also.

I informed my nieces also. For them, all that means at the moment is that they should be a little more vigilant with their self testing than perhaps the average 20-somethings. It is of course their personal decision to be tested for the gene or not. For my daughters, who are currently only 3 and 5, I will tell them when they are a lot older. Advances are being made in science every day so by the time they are in their twenties, hopefully they will have more options than I did.

It is a very personal choice. My decisions aren't for everyone. But thought I would share my reasoning.

Good luck

x-Sherril

I'll be interested in the replies you receive. I don't know the answer to your question. I was also triple neg and I do have history of lung cancer in my family.  I did ask my oncologist about having the test but she said no it's not necessary.

I would be interested to know did you request the test or did they recommended it? 

Hope the rest of your Treatment goes well. Take it easy and rest lots. 

Anne-Marie ??