In the mid-1990s, Laura Powell’s family participated in a National Institutes of Health case study relating to the BRCA gene.
If someone inherits a harmful change in BRCA1 (Breast Cancer gene 1) or BRCA2 (Breast Cancer gene 2), there is a much higher chance that person will get breast cancer — more than 60 percent for women, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Some estimates are even higher. Powell, who is the community relations officer for the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, was told the chance for breast cancer was about 78 percent if she tested positive.
While she was aware she might have the gene, Powell denied testing at first, wanting to live life on her own terms.
Powell found a noncancerous lump while she was pregnant, but then, when she went to a new doctor, he asked about her mammogram. As soon as she had her first mammogram, at age 30, she had a second mammogram two days later, and then a biopsy. Powell had precancerous calcifications that were too large to be removed in a lumpectomy.
She did end up having the BRCA gene, and she decided to go forward with a radical prophylactic mastectomy at now-TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in 2008 and a reconstruction at Atlantic General Hospital in 2009.
If you think you might have the BRCA gene, Powell recommends preparing for what you’ll plan to do if the test comes back positive. Don’t decide on something quickly, she said — think about the future to make the best decision for you.
“Make sure you understand the decision you’re making,” she said.
Awareness is important, she said.
“But awareness alone isn’t enough, action after awareness is what truly saves lives,” she said. “Whatever route someone may choose, the important thing is to be ready to take that next step.”
You can make a difference
Help save lives in our community by supporting the Sheila Zimmer Breast Screenings Fund. Created in memory of Sheila Zimmer, a Salisbury native who bravely battled breast cancer twice after a lifetime of giving back to others, this fund helps provide access to life-saving breast screenings and care up to diagnosis for patients in need. Through this effort, Sheila’s legacy of compassion and generosity will continue to touch lives.
Visit the TidalHealth Foundation page to support and help continue Sheila’s legacy.
