After having a breast cancer scare (so far cancer free) a couple of years ago, it was recommended that a genetic screening be done.  Long story short, I recently tested positive for BRCA 1 and have some symptoms that may be cause for concern and family members that have died from ovarian cancer.  I am a youthful 42, have not yet met the love of my life nor have I had children.  Although I'm not sure that I ever would, it was nice to know the possibility still existed.  I am planning to have all of the appropriate tests done ASAP, but meanwhile thinking about all of this stinks!  I've read some of the other posts and completely empathize w/ the feelings that come w/being a previvor but not a survivor.  The thought of going through surgeries to have organs removed and not being sick is frustrating.  I feel extremely alone (and scared) and have a hard time receiving comfort from friends and family who already have children and suggest that if it were them they'd just have everything removed.  When I read the brochure, included in my test results, it was somewhat of a relief to realize this site existed.  Since I am single, thoughts of going through surgery to have things removed or getting results from further testing that may be necessary, alone is frightening.  Thank you for creating this site and I'm looking forward to utilizing the information to further educate myself on all of this.  It is a comfort to know that I am not alone in this situation:)

Good luck in your decision making. It is not an easy road regarding decision making. I can only tell you that, even as a Breast Cancer patient, you have agonizing decisions to make as well. I was never told that I had to have a bilateral mastectomy. It's the BRCA (F'ing) gene that is so problematic to us all. I was only married 1 1/2 years when faced with this decision. I think that single, married, with children, child free, its such a serious …wow….moment you face. It's NEVER a good time to have surgery, no less surgery that interferes with our very essence as women.

I can tell you that whatever decision you come to, never look back. It was the RIGHT decision.

Take the time you need to become informed. Remember…..once you HAVE the BRCA gene…….you have an 87% risk of getting Breast or Ovarian Cancer by age 50!!!!!!!! Weigh it new sister. Be smart. Your life -vs- HELL.

Peace & calm to you.