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_chat
More from me: @lifeaftercancer_wtf
Chapters
00:00 Navigating BRCA Mutations and Family History
02:58 Emotional Journey of Genetic Testing
06:05 Body Image and Identity Post-Surgery
09:01 The Impact of Mastectomy on Relationships
12:00 Finding Empowerment Through Surgery
14:49 Dating and Self-Love After Mastectomy
17:56 Life Lessons and New Perspectives Post-Surgery
25:51 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Cancer Treatment
28:38 The Birth of a Charity: From Personal Journey to Community Support
31:40 Building Connections: The Importance of Community in Cancer Journeys
35:51 Understanding BRCA: Knowledge is Power