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October 27
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A MyBCTeam Member

My mom had breast cancer, but she didn't have BRCA gene. She was diagnosed at age 61 with stage 4 lobular HR+ and HER2+ breast cancer and died when she was 67. I was diagnosed with stage 1 HR+ invasive ductal breast cancer when I was 50. I tested positive for the CHEK2 gene defect. I don't know which side of the family carries that gene defect. My mom wasn't tested for it and there's cancer on both sides of the family so it's a mystery. I have a cousin on my dad's side and an aunt on my mom's side that also had breast cancer.

October 27 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

I was diagnosed in 2016 with stage 1 IDC, then in 2024 with stage 2 IDC and stage 3 ILC. No family history.

October 28
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member It's actually a small percentage of bc cases overall that actually have an inherited genetic mutation. Doctors always ask about the family history, but then leave us with a false sense of security- as they don't follow-up with reviewing ALL the risk factors, and a discussion regarding appropriate screenings and time-frames.

Like you, I am the first in either side of the family- and HER2+ has no confirmed inherited genetic factors. I could think of more exciting/fun ways to have been a trailblazer!! Hugs!

October 28
MyBCTeam

It's actually more common than you might think to be diagnosed with breast cancer without any family history β€” so you're definitely not alone in that experience!

Research shows that only about 1 in 10 breast cancer cases are linked to inherited gene changes passed down through families. That means the majority of people Show Full Answer

It's actually more common than you might think to be diagnosed with breast cancer without any family history β€” so you're definitely not alone in that experience!

Research shows that only about 1 in 10 breast cancer cases are linked to inherited gene changes passed down through families. That means the majority of people diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of it at all. One MyBCTeam member shared a story of being diagnosed at just 23 years old with no family history of breast cancer on either side of her family β€” proof that it can happen to anyone.

There are also MyBCTeam members who do have a strong family history, like those who discovered they carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations after multiple relatives were diagnosed.

Both experiences are valid, and both groups find real comfort in connecting with others who truly understand what this journey feels like. You're in good company either way. πŸ’›

October 27
A MyBCTeam Member

Mam was diagnosed whith estrogen positive cancer when she was 76, she couldn't have operation as too many health complications.
I received same diagnosis 2 years ago...
Just two of Mam's maternal cousins ....And one paternal Aunt....

October 27

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