a personal story

Every year, hundreds of thousands of American women (and men!) are diagnosed with breast cancer, each with their own personal story.

In 1998 I became part of the statistic, and part of the growing group of people dealing with genetic breast cancer. Beginning with my maternal uncle’s breast cancer diagnosis in 1974, my mother’s entire family – four siblings in all – were struck down by the disease. Being one of four sisters surrounded by so much breast cancer, it became painfully obvious that we needed to explore the possibility of a genetic connection.

After attending extensive genetic counseling sessions, all four sisters ultimately opted to be tested for the genetic link. Not surprisingly, it was discovered that three of us carry the BRCA 2 mutation, which dramatically increases our risk of getting breast cancer. The ensuing years would reveal three more cases of breast cancer in my family – two cousins, and eventually my own. Several more family members have since tested positive for the genetic mutation, escalating the ever-present threat of more cancers being discovered.

a story of hope and survival

Apron Strings: Inheriting Courage, Wisdom and... Breast Cancer is my family’s story of hope and survival against seemingly insurmountable odds. It is written, in part, to honor the memory of family members who so bravely faced their cancer with courage, grace and dignity. It is because of their strength that my generation had the perseverance to delve into our past and make tough and inconceivable choices, to emerge victorious. Their defeat has enabled our victory.

a story that's upbeat and optimistic

Although dealing with a very serious topic, Apron Strings is an upbeat and optimistic look at what can be learned from the past, and all that the future has in store. When faced with adversity – faith, love, humor and the power of the human spirit will always prevail.

 

Beach photo by David Land courtesy of the photographer and Family Circle magazine.