Has anyone been gene tested for BRAC thingy?

[LaurieFairyCake]

I've got to do it - I'm just owning up to the fact I have to do it

My grandmother died at 35 of breast cancer and my mother has terminal breast at 62.

What do I need to do?

I'm not googling as I just can't deal with it.

I reckon if you phone an organisation like Breast Cancer Care, they'll be really good with you.

Your mum's breast care nurse (if she has one) should be able to sort it out for you or else go via your go and they will be able to refer you. You will meet a genetic counsellor who will talk you through the pros and cons of testing. There is obviously a lot yomc

Sorry - to consider. But knowledge is power and you can avoid this horrible disease by taking this brave step.

Has your mum been tested?

Go to GP and they can refer you. I've been tested. Ask anything you want. It's a sane thing to do I think. Try and think about it as just practical maybe. That's what I did. Sorry about your mum. That must be tough.

Yes. I have.

I went through my GP who referred me to Clinical Genetics. They are excellent usually and take your detailed family history. Clinical Genetics then gives you a percentage risk rating. Mine was moderately raised so we didnt qualify for the test on the NHS at the time (would now, though).

So we went private through Breast Health UK. They were wonderful and provided excellent counselling. I would really recommend them if you go private. We tested my dad and thankfully he was negative for a harmful BRCA mutation. It was a long wait but whatever the result, I'm glad we did it as knowledge is literally life saving.

There is also a wonderful UK charity called BRCA Umbrella for people undergoing testing and treatment thereafter.

Hope this helps. It's a nerve wracking time - PM if you want to know more.

Hi there laurie I have and it was unfortunately positive, however, I had already had breast cancer so not such a big shock for me, It prompted me to have my ovaries removed in January and I'm fine.
I am very sad that my girls and my boys daughters may be at risk though but at least I can help them through it if necessary.
I'm happy to answer questions x

I just got a referral from my gp to the local genetic clinic, they were very nice.