Weall carry BRCA genes; the function of theBRCA1andBRCA2genes is to help act as tumor suppressors.
I originally never intended to find this information out.
At the time, the health report option didnt offer BRCA testing.
Sara Altschule
And after researching much more on my own, I opted in.
At a time like that, I surely needed perspective.
Working with a genetic counselor is highly recommended to help put your results into context, asSELF reported previously.
For me, that meantundergoing a preventative double mastectomy.
Dont say: Youre too young to have a mastectomy.
This is a private, personal decision that I made with support and education from the appropriate health experts.
Dont say: But you didnt even have cancer, right?
This comment is specifically said to previvors, like myself.
Making the decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy is an extremely difficult one, as I mentioned.
Dont say: “It’s like a free boob job!
I actually heard this comment many times, and it never got easier hearing it.
Having a mastectomy isnota free boob job.
I repeat,nota free boob job.
And with a mastectomy, thats exactly what is happening.
In general, its also amore complicated surgery.
Sometimes, the surgeon is removing your nipples and lymph nodes as well.
Instead, just dont compare these two operations at all.
This brings me to my next batch of no-no questions…
4.
Dont ask: Can I see your new boobs?
How big did you go?
The answer is probably no.
This question may make the other person uncomfortable and uneasy, even if youre really close with them.
Whats more, this question makes the assumption that the person who underwent a mastectomyalso had reconstruction.
Just like asking someone how much they weigh, its better to skip this question.
Dont say: Wow, your scars are so big.
Any negative or judgmental comment on a persons surgery is unappreciated.
Most people post-mastectomy already feel a little self-conscious about something pertaining to their reconstruction.
Dont say: Just be happy that youre healthy now.
This makes me feel like youre minimizing my emotions.
Going through a mastectomy comes with many upsetting thoughts and feelings, as you might imagine.
And honestly, I still feel bad for feeling bad sometimes.
We can be our own toughest critics, so implying that we should buck up isnt encouraging to us.
Dont say: Do you feel like less of a woman?
For me, my courage, bravery, and strength help define my womanhood.
Being a woman can be defined in a million ways and interpreted however a person wants.
Dont say: …nothing at all.
If you are sincere and thoughtful, any simple, loving, kind words will be appreciated.
