This January, I was genetically tested and told I had a pathogenic (disease causing) variant/mutation in my BRCA (BReast CAncer) 1 gene. This means I am up to 87% more likely to get breast cancer than the average woman and also up to 60% more likely to get ovarian/fallopian tube cancer than other women without the mutation. While the technology is there to aggressively screen for breast cancer and stay on top of that (which I am!), unfortunately there is no good way to screen for the ovarian cancer. The practicing Hematology/ Oncology doctor I saw recommends IMMEDIATE removal of my ovaries and tubes (full hysterectomy) as a prophylactic (preventative) measure. The need is immediate because of how difficult it is to detect the cancer before it is too late, the detection of the BRCA 1 gene mutation, typical aggressive onset, and family history of cancer (on my father's side). So basically, get it out before it inevitably gets cancer!!  My Hematology/ Oncology doctor gave $13,000 as a rough estimate/average cost of surgery. This is a lofty amount, I know, but literally ANY amount donated would be so gratefully accepted to offset all medical costs.  As much as I hate asking for help or money, as most people also do, I refuse to just stand aside and let cancer come knocking at my door, sooner OR later! I have to try every alleyway and every avenue (oi oi oi) I possibly can to stay around on this Earth for a while longer, if not for me, then for my son, husband, my mother, my friends, friends I've never actually met!, family, who believe in me and make me feel like I am loved and supported every day! It's going to be a challenging journey, but I'm up for it!! F*ck cancer.