Hello, my name is Emily and I am a wife and mother to two amazing kids. Just before Christmas 2020, I sat at my kitchen table, trying to fill the tiny spit bottle, that would ultimately test my genetics for the BRCA mutation. I sent that tiny bottle away, enjoyed the coming holidays and thought nothing of what might come back from that genetic test.

Just after the new year, I received a phone call that my results were back, and that I did, in fact, carry the BRCA2 genetic mutation. A million thoughts rushed threw my head. I went from being otherwise healthy, to now needing to be seen no less than 4 times a year, for various preventive screening and tests. My genetics counselor was so amazing, to explain all my options regarding testing, screening and preventive surgeries. Wow, here I am, 36, and I felt like I was just told I had amazing odds at winning the lottery, except, this lottery was cancer. For me, I found peace, comfort and a positive outlook in the fact that I was in the driver’s seat. I have been given the rare opportunity to get out in front of a possible cancer diagnosis. I have decided to have a preventive mastectomy this summer, and will also have my ovaries removed in a few years’ time. I am so thankful, that I get to make the choices, that will help keep me healthy and here, just that much longer for my children, my husband, my family and friends.

IG: theglammommyxo