
Empowered to Prevail: Cara Cappello’s Journey as a Previvor and Advocate
My Story: The Power of Knowledge
My name is Cara Cappello. I am a previvor to breast cancer. I am also the founder of my organization, Breast Previvors ROC. “Previvor” refers to an individual who carries a strong predisposition to cancer but has not yet developed cancer. These individuals proactively sought out knowledge to determine if they inherited a gene mutation by having genetic testing performed. The results of this testing subsequently allow them to make informed medical decisions to reduce their cancer risk.
Knowing about an inherited mutation gives people the power to take steps that reduce their risk for cancer, or detect cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage. I believe knowledge is power, and knowing about an inherited mutation gives people the power to take steps that may help reduce one’s risk for cancer, or detect cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage. Breast and ovarian cancer risk can be greatly reduced through increased monitoring, preventive drug treatment, or preventive surgery.
My Journey as a Previvor
I personally have gone through this journey. Through genetic testing in the fall of 2018, I found out I was at a high risk for breast cancer due to the CHEK2 gene mutation. After hearing the news of my fate, I wanted a prophylactic bilateral double mastectomy to reduce my risk of getting breast cancer.
After my surgery, I got all the validation I needed. My pathology report showed I had pre-cancerous cells in my right breast. It was just a matter of time before I got breast cancer. I am so glad I had genetic testing done—it saved my life from developing breast cancer.
The Need for Connection and Advocacy
As I was going through my prophylactic mastectomy journey, I really wanted to connect with others going through the same preventive surgery. I was looking into local support groups in Rochester, NY. There are many support groups offered to breast cancer survivors but not for previvors. I felt there was a huge disconnect in the medical community after finding out you are high risk for breast cancer and understanding what your next steps are.
Being able to seek out support and advocacy before and after a woman’s prophylactic mastectomy is vital in a woman’s healing journey. I knew there were others out there like myself who found out they were high risk for breast cancer and elected to have a prophylactic mastectomy. Our journey is different than someone going through breast cancer, but we still have a journey and need support and advocacy.
I longed for connection with others—to feel that I was not alone in this journey. I decided I needed to change that. I wanted the community to know there is support out there for other previvors like myself.
The Birth of Breast Previvors ROC
In 2019, I started Breast Previvors ROC, an organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for women affected by gene mutations that make them high risk for breast cancer—women who are considering reducing their risk of having breast cancer by having a prophylactic mastectomy.
In this journey, it is so important to be able to talk with others that understand what you are going through. I want the community to know there is support for other previvors. I provide private consultations to women going through their journey, and I also have a support group that meets several times a year.
A Message to All Previvors
I am so grateful to be able to support and empower others in their own journey. My hope is to let other previvors know that whatever you are going through, you are not alone. I am here for you.
A Message from Learn Look Locate
At Learn Look Locate, Cara’s courageous battle against breast cancer touches 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 Cara’s survivor narrative, our mission is to empower individuals at every phase of their cancer journey. We proudly stand by Cara’s and all those who demonstrate remarkable courage, celebrating their strength and reminding the world that hope shines brightest, even amidst life’s greatest trials.
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