Breast Cancer Health Center

Personal stories about preventing breast cancer

These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Selah, age 39: After I got over the shock of finding out that I have a BRCA gene change, I decided I would have surgery. But which one? What a tough choice-have my breasts removed or go into early menopause by having my ovaries removed. I finally chose to have my ovaries removed. I feel like that was the best step for me. My husband and I were done having children. Menopause hasn't been so bad. I was going to have to go through it sometime anyway. And I'd rather be in menopause than have cancer.

Adrianna, age 34: I have a fairly strong family history of breast cancer, but I don't think surgery is for me. I am taking tamoxifen to prevent cancer.

Fran, age 40: I have tested positive for a BRCA gene change, so my risk for cancer is very high. I'm determined to do everything I can to keep from getting breast and ovarian cancer. I recently had my ovaries removed, and I am scheduled to have my breasts removed later this year. Just having taken that first step has made me feel much better about my future.

June, age 25: Even though I have tested positive for a BRCA gene change, I'm just not ready to take a drastic step like cutting off my breasts or removing my ovaries and going into menopause. I'm planning to have a family, so I'm choosing intensive surveillance, at least for now. Maybe I'll reconsider in a few more years, but for now, having frequent checkups and testing is enough.