BRCA2 Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Rev. Colleen Irwin

BRCA2

I have the BRCA2 gene mutation that raised my risk to over a 90% chance I would have breast cancer.

Every woman that decides to have genetic testing has a reason. Mine was my family history. In 2018 my mother lost her battle with cancer. Breast cancer when she was 30 and again at 50. Then cervical, bladder and ultimately stomach cancer that took her life. Both her mother and grandmother also had breast cancer, so we believe that is where the gene comes from. One of my mother’s cousins died from Ovarian cancer.

My story is very different. I decided to find out my genetic risk and fight this on my own terms. I didn’t wait for cancer. With that, I am doing everything to ensure that I do not have to have cancer. Which resulted in some body altering decisions with a hysterectomy, followed by double mastectomy and reconstruction. I was 53 when I did this, older than most women, so the stories I saw were of much younger women going through this process.

I feel fortunate that everything has come back clear and that I caught this before it was a problem. Many women who undergo preventative surgery, end up only to find cancer at a very early stage. As a #previvor I have learned much about myself and how strong I am. I have not always had it easy going through the process. Others have had it far worse than I have. This is my story and what has happened as I have gone through this journey. It is my hopes that somehow my story will help someone else go through the process with a little more ease.

#Human Experience

The Pandemic Waiting Game

April 17, 2020August 28, 2021 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

This is an unprecedented time in history and it can be scary. You can either live in fear or have faith that it will all work out in the end. I choose faith. How about you?

#Human Experience

We all heal at different rates…

March 11, 2020May 8, 2025 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

Let’s talk about how our bodies heal. I have learned that recovery is different for everyone. While some bounce back, it takes others longer and that’s fine.

#Human Experience

Procrastination is a Sign

February 8, 2020August 28, 2021 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

Stop beating yourself up for your procrastination! Perhaps you need to look at your goals and re-evaluate them so you are not stressed out.

#Human Experience

The Power of the Written Word

October 28, 2019August 28, 2021 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

I now understand why some people called me brave. I felt the fear and I pushed forward and did what was necessary. I did not allow fear to rule me. Neither should you.

#Affirmations #Human Experience

Giving myself a break

October 25, 2019May 8, 2025 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

I am giving myself a break. Yesterday I put my Health Club membership on hold. I am accepting that my recovery from the

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#Health & Wellbeing

Surgery Recovery Continues

October 12, 2019May 8, 2025 By Rev. Colleen Irwin

Seven weeks out from preventative double mastectomy and I am getting better every day and in the process I am finding patience in this BRCA2 Journey I am on.