Three-Time BRCA1 Breast Cancer: Katrina’s Journey Starting at 28
Early Onset Breast Cancer: First Diagnosis at 28
I’m Katrina—a mom, daughter, sister, dog mom, and proud Texas girl. Yoga is my outlet when I have a spare moment, though my days are mostly filled with caring for my kids. And, I’m a breast cancer patient advocate and a three-time breast cancer survivor.
BRCA1 Positive Diagnosis and Treatment Decisions
My first breast cancer diagnosis came in 2002 when I was just 28 years old. Hearing, “You have cancer” for the first time changed everything. It felt like my body had betrayed me. When my oncologist told me I’d need chemotherapy, my biggest fear was, “Will I ever have kids? Will I ever get to be a mom?”
I was encouraged to get tested for the BRCA gene, and the results came back positive. From there, I had to make a choice. I chose a full mastectomy, thinking, “Take all the breast tissue—I don’t need it. I’d rather be here, to live the life I have today.”
Building a Support Network Through Cancer
I wouldn’t be where I am without my family, my community, my sisters, and everyone else who supported me along the way. I’m so grateful for them. I can’t say I’m glad I had cancer, but I can say it showed me my strength. That experience is what led me into advocacy. I wanted to become an empowered patient and truly understand the implications of BRCA1. It’s so important for us to know our bodies and advocate for ourselves.
Life as a Three-Time Survivor: Ongoing Vigilance
Today, I don’t have an active cancer diagnosis, but I still see my oncologist every six months and my dermatologist every three months. I stay on top of my appointments because I need to take care of myself to be there for my kids, Kaelyn and Gavin. I want to soak in every moment and not miss a single thing.
It’s hard knowing I’ll always live with the fear of another diagnosis or worry that the next one might be something I can’t recover from. But for today, I’m here, and I’m grateful.
Learn Look Locate: Supporting BRCA1 and Young Breast Cancer Survivors
At Learn Look Locate, we are inspired by Katrina’s remarkable journey as a three-time breast cancer survivor diagnosed at just 28. Her experience with BRCA1 and early-onset breast cancer highlights the importance of genetic testing and proactive healthcare. Through our comprehensive resources on hereditary breast cancer and survivorship care, we support survivors like Katrina in their ongoing journey. Her transformation into a patient advocate embodies our mission to educate and empower others, especially young women facing hereditary breast cancer risks.