I wish I'd known about FORCE when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010! After finding out I had the BRCA2 mutation, it was a strange "relief" because our family finally had an answer as to why we'd lost so many of our relatives to breast, ovarian, and other cancers over the years. Because of that information, my relatives (including my brother and three first cousins) were able to be proactive and take steps to reduce their cancer risks. It may have saved their lives.
I became a FORCE volunteer in 2014. Since that time, I've been an Outreach Coordinator, Peer Navigator, and, most recently, a co-leader for FORCE's virtual Survivor Support group. Through these efforts, I've connected with countless individuals who needed to talk to someone who had "been there". After breast cancer, genetic testing, eight surgeries, and losing my mom to metastatic breast cancer in 2012, I truly understand the feelings of panic, anxiety, anger, grief, and confusion that come with hereditary cancer syndrome. It's so rewarding to help other people in similar situations and turn my hardships into doing something positive for others.