Four generations of women in my family had breast and/or ovarian cancer.
My mother had breast cancer at 49.
My grandmother battled ovarian cancer twice and passed away when I was 12.
Her sister, my great-aunt, had breast cancer twice and died from ovarian cancer.
And my great-grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer at 28 and died when she was just 32.
There were others, too.
I wasnt surprised when I tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation at 19.
Although it wasnt cancer, given the mutation, I had it removed.
Through volunteering with the group, I was able to research my options and meet other people like me.
At 23, after my first breast MRI, three more lumps were detected.
Four lumps in four years: It felt like I was a ticking time bomb.
I felt too young to be dealing with all of these complications.
These had to be filled with saline every two weeks until the expanders reached the size of the implants.
My dating life hasnt been affectedany man worth having would have to accept me as I am.
Luckily, I met my boyfriend during reconstruction five years ago, and hes been incredibly loving and accepting.
This gene mutation has become part of my identity, but in a good way.
As a licensed clinical social worker, Ill be able to empower and provide support to affected people.
I dont regret my decision.
My breasts never made meand now they dont weigh me down, either.
Jennifer Davis, 30, is a psychology student who lives in Alexandria, Virginia.
Meredith, right, standing with her wife.
Im not ready to have my breasts removed.
Or my ovaries, though its something I constantly have to think about.
In 2010, my dad asked me to get tested for the BRCA gene mutation.
I figured Id get the test and wed move on with our lives.
When I heard I tested positive, my mind went blank.
I hadnt thought about next steps.
My girlfriend (now my wife), my dad and I were all in shock.
I felt like this was my only option.
Then my girlfriend encouraged me to calm down, take a step back and think about whatI wantedto do.
Since 2011, Ive been alternating between a breast MRI and mammogram every six months.
Im practicing yoga, I quit smoking and I go to a therapist, which helps me de-stress.
My family and friends have supported my decision.
My dad is the bravest, coolest guy in the world, and hes been extremely supportive.
My hope is that the science will improve and that my health vigilance will make things different for me.
Right now, Im cancer-free, and thats what matters.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jennifer Davis; Courtesy of Meredith Swinney
