She Didn't Have Cancer... So Why The Double Mastectomy?

Christen didn’t have cancer… but she was told it was likely coming.After discovering she carries the BRCA mutation, she was faced with a decision most of us can’t even imagine, wait and see… or have surgery to remove your breasts when you don't even have cancer.In this episode, Kristen shares her journey from losing her mum to ovarian cancer and genetic testing… to choosing a preventative double mastectomy, navigating body image, sex, dating, and identity on the other side.We talk honestly about the emotional weight of living in the “what if”, the pressure of making life-altering decisions, and how she turned it all into purpose by creating a space for other women going through the same thing.This is about more than risk.It’s about control, confidence, and learning how to live fully... even when the future feels uncertain.Find the charity: @brca_chatMore from me: @lifeaftercancer_wtfChapters00:00 Navigating BRCA Mutations and Family History02:58 Emotional Journey of Genetic Testing06:05 Body Image and Identity Post-Surgery09:01 The Impact of Mastectomy on Relationships12:00 Finding Empowerment Through Surgery14:49 Dating and Self-Love After Mastectomy17:56 Life Lessons and New Perspectives Post-Surgery25:51 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Cancer Treatment28:38 The Birth of a Charity: From Personal Journey to Community Support31:40 Building Connections: The Importance of Community in Cancer Journeys35:51 Understanding BRCA: Knowledge is Power43:51 The Complexity of Choices: Navigating Decisions in Cancer Care48:45 Life After BRCA: Embracing Purpose and Community