Jill's BRCA Journey

In June 2018 I was diagnosed with the the BRCA-1 gene mutation. This means that I have a 60% lifetime chance of getting Ovarian Cancer and a 90% lifetime chance of getting Breast Cancer. With those odds, it was not a difficult decision for me to move forward with the two preventative surgeries that would give me a normal life expectancy.  I have a 3 year old son, so I will do whatever it takes to be around for him. In September 2018, I officially became a "previvor" of Ovarian Cancer by having a complete hysterectomy. Now I am on to the next stage, which is a double mastectomy + reconstruction.  I will be having the surgeries on April 25 with Dr. Neil Friedman and Dr. Bernard Chang at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. This is a dual phase process. The Phase 1 surgery on April 25 is the mastectomy and the initial reconstruction, and takes about 8 hours. Phase 2 is a revision surgery and takes place several months after the initial surgery.   This is a very intense and long surgery with a 6 - 8 week anticipated recovery time, during which I will have very limited range of motion and mobility.   I have created this site as a way to keep my friends and family updated on my surgery and recovery process. And also to let people know how they can help via meal drop-offs, medical bill donations, food delivery gift cards, etc.  To learn more about this genetic mutation, I recommend FORCE: http://www.facingourrisk.org/index.php I can't tell you how much I appreciate any and all of your support!