Emily

Age You Tested Positive
49 years old
Gene Mutation
ATM gene mutation

Preventative Steps Taken
Genetic testing in 2021
Prophylactic bilateral mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure
Ongoing surveillance for other cancers associated with the ATM mutation

Family Planning Status at Diagnosis
Married and post-menopausal.

Your Initial Thoughts When You Found Out About Your Mutation
After losing both of my parents to cancer and seeing six female relatives diagnosed with breast cancer, I was determined to never be the seventh. When my genetic counselor told me I had more than a 60% chance of developing breast cancer, I knew a prophylactic mastectomy just made sense.

How You Felt About the Decisions You Faced
I spent three years weighing the pros and cons of preventive surgery before finding the courage to move forward. There is a temptation with a genetic mutation to put your head in the sand and pretend it’s not true. It took a while for me to fully accept this new reality & become my own advocate, researching the surveillances, surgeries, and support I would need.

What Preventative Choices You Made and Why
I chose to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy because I saw a strong pattern of estrogen-positive breast cancers in my family, many of which appeared to spread quickly. I wanted to reduce my risk as much as possible while also preserving the option to remain on hormone replacement therapy, which had significantly improved my quality of life during menopause.
For reconstruction, I chose aesthetic flat closure. I wanted a "one and done" experience with the least amount of pain, scarring, infection risk, and additional surgeries.

What Recovery Was Like
My physical recovery was smooth and uncomplicated. I was surprised by how quickly my body adapted. The scars are slowly fading. The emotional and mental adjustment took longer. To help ease the transition, I wore prosthetic breasts in the same size I had before surgery for about a year. Having the familiar weight and appearance helped lessen the shock and gave my nervous system time to adjust to my new body. Over time, I became increasingly comfortable and confident without them and now embrace my new freedom from bras and boob sweat!

Where You Are Now
Today, I am at peace with my decision. My risk of developing breast cancer has been dramatically reduced, giving me tremendous relief from the anxiety of constant screening and uncertainty. While I still require surveillance for other cancers related to the ATM mutation, I feel grateful for the knowledge and opportunity to take proactive action that many women in my family never had.

What You Would Do the Same or Differently
I would absolutely make the same decision again. Choosing prophylactic mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure was the right choice for me. The support of my husband, who has been my biggest cheerleader throughout this journey, was a key part of my rapid healing and acceptance. I am so grateful to now be a lifetime member of the 2% Club! The dues were steep but worth it.

What You Wish You Had Known
I wish I had known that the emotional recovery would take longer than the physical recovery. While my body healed quickly, it took time for my mind and nervous system to adjust to an elective amputation, but I am so proud of the resilience and strength that have come from it

What You Want Other Previvors to Know
This path is too intense to be walked alone. Connecting with other previvors through NothingPink gave me strength, understanding, and support when I needed it most. You will learn you can carry the tension of both grief and gratitude at the same time. Every person's journey is different, and there is no right or wrong choice—only the choice that feels right for you. Trust yourself, gather information, network with others, and know that whatever decision you make, you are stronger than you realize.