This is a tricky subject- but I felt we could not ignore the whole subject of genetics. Because of all the great cancer research that is happening, the research community has found certain genes to cause certain cancers. That is not to say that they have found all of the genes that cause cancer. I only speak from my limited experience and so I suggest you meet with your doctors and go for genetic counseling like I did.

There are 2 genetic mutations that have been linked to breast cancer and ovarian cancer. I was diagnosed at the age of 33 and I had a family history, so my doctors recommended that I get tested for the gene. Only 5% (approx.) of breast cancer patients have the gene. I was positive for the BRAC 2 mutation. I was in that unlucky or lucky (depending on how you look at it) category. It can be a blessing to know why you got cancer as a cancer patient –it can give you piece of mind. But that knowledge can also be a heavy weight.  Some of the questions that went through my mind were “If I have this, does my mom? My brother? My cousins?”, “What if I have kids? Can I pass this down to them?”

It’s true what they say-knowledge is power, and after I talked to my doctors and my family; I made the right decision for me and my situation, but only because I had all of the facts and statistics that applied to me.

CanverVictory.com shares the things that survivors, including myself, learned while being treated for cancer. We are not medical professionals and everyone is different, so please consult your physician about anything you read on this site or on any other site. Your health is important and you should make all medical decisions in consultation with your doctor.