When you have a family history of cancer, the risk for getting it yourself increases. It is important to take as many precautions as possible to reduce the risk of getting cancer, especially if it already runs in your family.
Today, actress Angelina Jolie shared her story about her family history of cancer and what she decided to do to reduce her chances of getting it.
The New York Times ran her article this morning. In the article, she explains going through a mastectomy after being tested for BRCA1 (a gene that increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer) and why she chose this path. She said, "I decided to be proactive and to minimize the risk as much as I could. I made the decision to have a preventative double mastectomy."
Angelina wanted to share her story with women so they can take-charge and not be scared of cancer, so they knew they had options. I created EmpowHER for this reason, to inform women and give them a resource to turn to.
I saw Angelina just four weeks ago at the Women in the World event and she looked absolutely radiant. She is my hero for having the strength and courage to share her story to help other women.
Share her story with all the women you know so we can spread the word.
Here is a link to the article:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/14/opinion/my-medical-choice.html?smid=fb...
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Add a Comment3 Comments
Thank you for all your comments everyone. It is wonderful that people are opening up and sharing their health experiences, which is our mission here at EmpowHER. Sharing your story can make an impact on someone's health.
May 15, 2013 - 10:56amThis Comment
Before all the test results had come in and there was a chance I would have needed a double mastectomy and possibly a oopherectomy, my biggest fear wasn't that cancer could take my life but that it would strip me of my female-ness. In my mind, no amount of reconstruction could relieve me of that reality. Kudos to the women who get past that and go on to live their precious lives.
May 15, 2013 - 9:37amThis Comment
The initial altered body image associated with a mastectomy can be overwhelming for many women. I think hearing Ms. Jolie's sound reasons for choosing the prophylactic surgery, and seeing how beautiful she continues to be, will the needed inspiration.
Maryann
May 14, 2013 - 4:20pmThis Comment