Jan 21 2010

Genetics

Published by at 10:25 pm under Tests

Due to the fact that I have had two cancers by 40 and breast cancer by 40 were two reasons to have my doctors suggest genetic counseling.  On December 18th, I went to Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh to talk with a counselor and have testing which is done by taking some blood.   They tested me for BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes, which are breast cancer genes.  They also tested me for Li-Fraumenie Syndrome (LFS) which is very rare.

During Christmas week, I got a call from Darci at Hillman that I was negative for BRAC1 and BRAC2.  Today she called and told me that I was negative for part of the LFS test.  There is another result for LFS that I will have next week.  The doctors think it will most likely be negative.  If these tests were positive, I would be treated differently and my children would also need testing.  So far so good.

Today, I had a hearing test to see how much damage was done from the prior chemo.  There was some damage done but the doc said it was not too bad.  Now they have a base line to see if more damage is occurring with the next chemo treatments.

Until  tomorrow . . . I am falling asleep.

One response so far

One Response to “Genetics”

  1. Marnion 22 Jan 2010 at 11:56 am

    Amy-
    Thank you for sharing you story. Your positive attitude is an inspiration to all who are fortunate enough to know you. You’ve conquered this once, and will do so again!
    My thoughts and prayers are with you…
    -Marni