Casey’s Journey: Embracing Life as a BRCA1 Previvor

For my own health and for the sake of my family, I wanted to do everything I could to prevent cancer and be alive to watch my kids grow up.

Discovering the BRCA1 Mutation

Four years ago, I was offered genetic testing based on my family’s cancer history, but I was content not knowing my status at that time. Looking back now, I can’t believe I didn’t just go ahead and get it done. It wasn’t until last year when my sister @‌erinplum was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 31 that I realized I really needed to take my potential cancer risk more seriously.

Facing the Risks Head-On

My life changed the minute I found out I was BRCA1+. My odds of getting breast and ovarian cancer rocketed sky high, and I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath as I began what turned into months of research, meetings with surgeons, and major emotional turmoil.

Choosing Prevention and Embracing Change

In the end, I knew in my gut what I needed to do, and I was at peace when I decided to get both a prophylactic total hysterectomy & a bilateral mastectomy with a flat closure. For my own health and for the sake of my family, I wanted to do everything I could to prevent cancer and be alive to watch my kids grow up.

Living Life as a Previvor

So here I am: at the ripe old age of 33, in menopause and living without breasts. Going flat after my mastectomy has been both freeing and challenging, and I’m so grateful for the encouraging BRCA and flattie community I’ve found on Instagram!

I can be found documenting flattie fashion & real life as a young previvor over at @‌theflattiecloset. Come say hi.

A Message from Learn Look Locate

At Learn Look Locate, survivors like Casey touch our hearts deeply. We are honored to share her story, offering a platform for survivors to come together, learn, and find solace in one another’s experiences. Through our diverse range of resources including Casey’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey.

We proudly stand by Casey and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.