A Father and Daughter’s BRCA Story
Alan watched his daughter, Jill, bravely fight ovarian cancer, but had no idea he passed along the genetic mutation that put her at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.
This is their story.
When were you diagnosed with ovarian cancer? How were you diagnosed?
Jill: I was diagnosed August 16, 2007. I had a persistent cough that was a result of the cancer metastasizing to the lining of my lung.
What did you know, if anything, about the BRCA mutation before your diagnosis?
Jill: As an Ashkenazi Jew, I was aware of the BRCA mutation but had no reason to believe that I could have the mutation. I did not have a family history that pointed toward me having the mutation.
When did you find out you had the BRCA mutation?
Jill: I was tested for the mutation toward the end of my treatment for ovarian cancer. I had to request the test from my doctor as he felt there wasn’t family history to support the testing.
What steps have you taken to ensure your own children are aware of their risk?
Jill: Having two daughters, I was devastated to think that I may have passed the mutation on to them. Fortunately, they will be able to determine their risk through genetic testing and take possible preventative measures. I have encouraged both of my daughters to be tested, as well as other family members.
Before Jill’s diagnosis, were you aware that you had the BRCA mutation? If not, when did you discover that you had the BRCA mutation?
Alan: I was not aware that I had the mutation or could even be a carrier for the mutation. My wife and I were tested for the mutation once Jill’s test came back positive. That is when I found out that I had the mutation.
Do you know which of your parents passed it along to you?
Alan: We can’t be certain as both of my parents have passed away. My father only had brothers and my mother had two sisters and two brothers. There wasn’t any family history of breast and ovarian cancer in either family, so we believe it probably came down through my father.
What was your reaction to Jill’s diagnosis?
Alan: When Jill was diagnosed, I wasn’t aware that I carried the BRCA mutation. Her illness scared my wife and I. You can’t imagine your children being in critical health. Once I learned that I had the BRCA mutation, I felt guilty for passing it on to her.
Researchers have found that men with the BRCA mutation have a slightly higher risk of developing breast, prostate and skin cancers. Now that you are aware of your BRCA status, are you taking steps to be more proactive about your own health?
Alan: I am. A couple of years ago, I found a lump in my own breast and immediately had it looked at. Thankfully it was nothing. Prior to knowing that I had the BRCA mutation, I would have probably not gone to the doctor as quickly. I go for regular checkups and make sure that my doctors are aware of the mutation.
For more information about the BRCA mutation and genetic testing, please click here.