Becoming BRCAStrong

Tracy Milgram-Posner learned that she carried a BRCA2 mutation when she was just 21 years old. In the pre-Angelina Jolie era, feeling alone and isolated, she started a FacebookGroup, BRCAStrong, which has since grown into a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is “To support, educate, inspire and empower Previvors and Survivors. To eliminate the feeling of isolation and help them feel whole again.”  Tracy shares how learning she had a BRCA2 mutation at such a young age impacted her life decisions;  how she feels she wasn’t given enough education related to the effects of having her ovaries removed at just 32 years old; how helpful telehealth genetic counseling was for her even years after her diagnosis—and how she wished she had received the benefit at the time of her diagnosis; and how she navigates talking to her young children about BRCA-related risks. (Spoiler: She gives a big shoutout to Proactive Genes!) Have thoughts or a related story you’d like to share? Leave us a short voice message here! We may use your message on a future show. Links and Resources BRCAStrong Proactive Genes My Gene Counsel Connect with BRCAStrong on Social Media: BRCAStrong on Instagram: @brcastrong BRCAStrong on Facebook BRCAStrong on YouTube Check out other Patient Stories podcast episodes. Read other Patient Stories on the Grey Genetics Patient Stories Page Do you want to support Patient Stories? You can now make a donation online! Want to support Patient Stories in a non-monetary way? Leave us a review on iTunes, or share your favorite episodes on Social Media. Patient Stories on Twitter: @GreyGeneticsPod Patient Stories on Instagram: @patientstoriespodcast Are you looking for genetic counseling? Patient Stories is sponsored by Grey Genetics, an independent telehealth genetic counseling and consulting company. Book an appointment with a genetic counselor specialized in your area of concern. All genetic counseling appointments take place over secure, HIPAA-compliant video-conferencing or by phone. Not quite ready for genetic counseling but still looking for guidance? Check out our new family history review services here.