What does it really mean to live with a BRCA1 gene mutation? How do you make life-changing decisions when hereditary cancer runs through your family?
In this episode of BRCA & Beyond, I sit down with Kristen Jordan (@sheinheritsstrength), a wife, mother, nurse practitioner, and BRCA1 previvor, who shares her deeply personal journey through genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk, and preventative surgery.
After experiencing devastating loss within her family, Kristen learned she carries the BRCA1 genetic mutation, significantly increasing her lifetime risk for breast cancer and ovarian cancer. She opens up about the emotional impact of discovering she was BRCA positive, navigating survivor's guilt, making difficult decisions about preventive surgery, and finding purpose through advocacy.
Together, we discuss:
• Living with a BRCA1 mutation
• The importance of genetic testing and knowing your family history
• Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk
• Preventive mastectomy and hysterectomy decisions
• Family history, grief, and survivor's guilt
• Finding hope, resilience, and community after a hereditary cancer diagnosis
Whether you've recently tested positive for BRCA1 or BRCA2, Lynch Syndrome, PALB2, Chek, ATM, or other genetic mutations; have a strong family history of cancer; are considering preventive surgery; or simply want to better understand hereditary cancer, Kristen's story is an honest reminder that knowledge is power—and that you don't have to walk this journey alone.
Connect with Kristen:
Instagram: @sheinheritsstrength
If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone navigating a hereditary cancer journey. Together, we can raise awareness, encourage early detection, and help others feel seen, informed, and supported.
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