Cara's Story: "Haley and I lost our mom to breast cancer when we were 17 and 19 years old. Our mom was only 50. Both our mom and her sister, Natalie, battled this disease throughout their early 40s. I started studying cancer biology a year after my mom died to try to understand the disease that took my best friend. I truly believe knowledge is power. Through that knowledge came the revelation that I am in an incredibly high risk category for developing breast cancer early in my life. At 25, I started seeing an oncologist and genetic counselor, and at 30 I had my first mammogram. They found 4 abnormal lesions in my breasts. Three of those turned out to be nothing of significance, but one was biopsied and found to be a large fibroadenoma. I had always considered having a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy, so after this I consulted a radiologist and oncologist. Due to my incredibly dense breast tissue, abnormal mammogram, fibroadenoma and family history, we calculated my risk of breast cancer to be about 40%. This is not a risk I am willing to take. I am currently finishing up my second year of medical school, studying to be a medical oncologist. I can’t help other people if I myself am battling this disease. Therefore, about a year ago we began planning my surgeries to align with my medical school schedule. My first surgery, December 23rd, is the week after my last pre-clerkship exam. My second surgery will be a reconstruction about a month later, while I am studying for my first board exam (STEP1). I have been working part time to support myself during medical school. I work weddings on the weekends, and because of this surgery I will be out of work for almost 3 months. In addition to this, the cost of the surgeries will be upwards of $15,000. This is a decision I have made and I accept the responsibility of it, but any help anyone is willing to offer would be unimaginably appreciated."

Update: Cara went through her first surgery and is at home recovering. We appreciate everyone’s continued support!