October 11, 2017 marks the biggest day of my life and one of the most difficult decisions I ever made to date in my life. I had a 6 am arrival to Smilow cancer hospital to have a bilateral mastectomy and diep reconstruction all in one.  It was the scariest walk down the hall to anywhere I did. But I did it. People always ask me the same question, Do I regret having this surgery? My answer the same - I wish I knew then what I know now. I would have done some things different in response of what was happening to me but yes, I would have still had this surgery. I can't guarantee I will never get any type of cancer with having the BRCA 1 mutation or not but my chances of having ovarian and breast cancer went from 85% to least then 5%.  Despite some medical, physical and emotional complications through out the years I’m doing well. This is not and was not an easy decision to make for me. Knowing what I know now there are some things I would have done differently but I have zero regrets about my decision to do this surgery. When living with ticking time bombs there was no choice to make. It’s something I needed to do. While there are some who disagree with this statement there are many more who I know believe the same. throughout the years my circle has become smaller but I’m alright with that because I know who is here for real. I feel blessed with all those in my life, old and new. I have also met so many wonderful women, virtually and face to face who have been so incredible and prominent in my life and recovery. These women who are survivors and previvors, each one fighting an individual battle so we can collectively win the war. This has not been an easy 8 years, which started with a 10.5 hour surgery turned into 26 hours within 2.5 days and I have since have had many other boomerangs back to the hospital but every day and year passing is better. My boomerangs are not just due to this surgery but due to other autoimmune issues I have. I refuse to let my medical issues stop me from living life. I have made so many changes in my life, most importantly my career path. While others may not agree this is what works best for me. My doctors agree and recommended it. So to again answer the question asked of me, Even with all complications, multiple surgeries, hospital stays, rehab, hours upon hours of being in the OR, never ending and ongoing doctors appointments, wound care and treatments, agony and feeling defeated, yes, I would do this again. Final answer is I’m here to speak of it.  I don’t know what would have happened if I didn’t take that walk 7 years ago down the empty hallway leading to the registration desk to check in but I do know I’m here.

This is a date I will never forget. It changed my life forever. Brca and cancer bullied me but I stood up for myself and I prevailed! While I am a previvor (having the same surgeries as those with cancer to prevent possible cancer) I have survived one of the worst medical ordeals of my life that no one should have to go through.

Thank you to all in my life who stayed and have joined along the way. I could never have started or continued on this journey without you. I’m also so thankful for those at Discovery To Cure who have worked to raise funds for research and so much more to help people like me get to where I am today. 7 years down, a lifetime to go!!