For years, I lived in the shadow of cancer. It had taken my mother and grandmother, and deep down, I quietly feared I was next. Despite that fear, no one ever told me there were proactive steps I could take to understand my risk. Then, during what seemed like just another routine conversation with my primary care provider, everything changed—she introduced me to BRCA1 genetic testing.
That pivotal moment marked the first time I truly realized I had options.
It took years of inner struggle before I finally found the courage to get tested. Even then, the anxiety didn’t disappear—I’ll never forget the overwhelming fear I carried in the weeks leading up to my results. Then, on Christmas Eve, I got the call: BRCA1 positive.
In that moment, fear collided with relief. For the first time, I had clarity. However, that clarity came with a new weight—now, I had important decisions to make.
The Weight of Knowledge, the Power of Choice
Learning I carried the BRCA1 mutation brought on a wave of emotions—fear, relief, hope, and uncertainty. More importantly, though, it gave me the one thing my mother and grandmother never had: the power of choice.
Being a previvor means standing at the complex intersection of risk and prevention. In this space, some choose regular surveillance. Others opt for surgery. Still others decide to wait and watch. Ultimately, there’s no single right path—only the one that best aligns with your life, your values, and your comfort level.
As for me, I chose to act. I chose to take control of my health and dramatically reduce my cancer risk. And now, I want others to know this truth:
Even today, so many people still don’t realize they could be at risk—or that genetic testing even exists as an option. As a result, too many wait for a diagnosis they might have been able to prevent.
That’s precisely why I share this story: to spark meaningful conversations, raise awareness, and empower others to take their health into their own hands.
Ultimately, I hope my journey helps you feel seen, supported, and less alone. If you’d like to follow more of what I share, I invite you to visit my educational space on Instagram: @BrokenGene.Store.
About Holly
Originally from Philadelphia and now based in Boston, I work in hospital administration. Through this role, I’ve grown deeply passionate about making healthcare more personal, proactive, and patient-centered. Moreover, my BRCA1 diagnosis gave me not only the opportunity to act—but also the chance to help others do the same.
Beyond my advocacy efforts, I also enjoy life’s lighter moments. I love traveling, discovering new restaurants, and going on coffee adventures with my husband. In addition, my platform, @BrokenGene.Store, is dedicated to helping others understand hereditary cancer risks and feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health.
Your story matters—just like Holly’s. If you’re navigating hereditary cancer risk, have faced a diagnosis, or want to share your own path to healing, we invite you to be part of our global movement.
Share your story with us here: Share Your Story
Help others feel less alone, more empowered, and part of something bigger.
At Learn Look Locate, we are honored to share Holly’s journey as part of our mission to bring real stories and medically vetted resources to individuals all over the world. We believe in the power of knowledge, community, and the personal experiences that connect us all.
Explore more resources and survivor voices
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Address: 5800 W. Arizona Pavilions Dr. Suite 1816
Cortaro, Arizona 85652