On 16th August 2007 I underwent a bilateral mastectomy-voluntarily. Many commented how brave I was. It was not so much a brave decision I took but rather in my mind the only sensible thing to do…;
for me but especially for my sons, my husband and my whole family…
My sister was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2006. She was 35 years at the time. Today after chemotherapy, surgery and radiation she is well! Our family has a strong history of both breast and ovarian cancers and my sister’s diagnosis prompted me to have myself tested for the BRCA1 gene mutation. This genetic mutation puts the person at a significantly increased risk of both breast and ovarian cancers. Exact percentages differ but these are generally quoted as a risk in the order of 50-80% of contracting breast cancer (the general female population has an approximate 10% risk) and 20-40% risk of ovarian cancer. (General population risk is significantly lower at around 2-4%). In addition to the marked increase in risk, the cancers usually develop at a much younger age in those who possess the genetic mutation.
My tests in June revealed I was positive. The options as far as the breast cancer risk were to either adopt a conservative approach whereby I would have careful breast surveillance (yearly mammograms, six monthly breast sonars and at least monthly self examinations) or have prophylactic surgery.
For me the decision was simple. Prophylactic mastectomy generally allows for a risk reduction of 90-95 %.( this will depend on a number of factors amongst them the skill of the surgeon and thus the quantity of breast tissue removed. It will also depend on the pathology findings at the time of surgery and the confirmation that there is indeed no hidden cancer). Having the surgery as I saw it would thus decrease my risk of contracting breast cancer to a level below that of the general female population. Fortunately there is also the availability of immediate reconstruction for those who want it. I did not want to wait to get the cancer.
My mammogram in December 2006 was clear as was my breast sonar in June. I only felt reassured however when I was told that all breast tissue removed from me on August 16th was free from cancer microscopically.
The recovery was fairly quick. I had a brief two day stay in hospital and two more weeks at home before I could drive again. I was back at work within 18 days of surgery. The pain was bearable, similar to the feeling of engorgement one experiences when the milk starts to come in after giving birth. My function improved daily and within 6 weeks I was back on the road trying to regain my running fitness. Perhaps it is my resolve that I know I have done the right thing that helped with my recovery. I know it was also my family and friends’ support as well as the care of my surgical team that got me through it.
I believe with all my heart that I am privileged to have had the opportunity to probably alter my future. I am grateful to know that I have done all in my power (as far as breast cancer is concerned) to ensure that one day unlike my own grandmother who succumbed to this disease, I will have the pleasure of knowing my own grandchildren.
With warm regard and love,
Karin Mervis.
