Frocktober – the BRCA genes

•FROCKTOBER•

I’m frocking up to show support for ovarian cancer research .

Around 20% of ovarian cancer cases are hereditary, caused by mutations in genes such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Vital research helps researchers better understand ovarian cancer so crucial developments can be made in diagnosis and treatment, including precision medicine.

The day after I was operated on and diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, a nurse came to see me, to take blood for genetic testing. I was tested for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and some other genetic mutations. I had no idea Ovarian Cancer was linked to the BRCA genes – I thought that only applied to Breast Cancer. The nurse told me that I might be eligible for a clinical trial if I did have the BRCA gene.

Taking bloods was unsuccessful that day – it’s very hard to take blood from me, and I’m needlephobic. So my genes were tested at a later date.

I was also asked to put together a bit of a family tree. Breast and gynaecological cancer were present in my family on both sides – in my great aunts and grandmother. I also let my cousins know that I have cancer, and for them to be mindful of any symptoms they might have.

Some months later. I got a call from my Geneticist, who said she had the results, and would talk me through them on the phone. She was very nervous to open the envelope and tell me – but fortunately I had no genetic mutations linked to cancer. She also told me that this means there will less likely be a recurrence.

Donate to my Frocktober campaign. Thank you to all the donations so far – today the total is $4362.

I’m wearing a dress from @varietyhour_, boots by @therapyshoes (previously gifted) bag from @roodlebag and coat from @depop. This outfit got SO many and compliments – thank you!

Images: Carly wearing a pink, purple, green and blue check trench coat over a green and pink floral dress, yellow bag and hot pink boots, standing in a laneway near flowers growing on a wall.