Breast cancer can be a family matter, and no one understands this better than Michelle Watson, an African American breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed with Stage II Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) at the age of 36, Michelle’s journey began long before her diagnosis—through the lens of her family’s history with the disease. Her story underscores the importance of genetic testing and knowing your family’s medical history.
Michelle’s battle with cancer was deeply influenced by the experiences of her paternal aunt, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 30s. Sadly, her aunt’s eldest daughter passed away from breast cancer in her early 20s, a devastating loss for the family. It was through her aunt’s battle that Michelle learned about the BRCA1 gene mutation—a genetic mutation that significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and other cancers.
In the late 1990s, Michelle’s aunt underwent genetic testing, which came back positive for BRCA1. At the time, there was still uncertainty about how the gene was passed on, but Michelle’s father was advised to get tested. Unfortunately, he never did, largely due to the reluctance of insurance companies to cover the cost of genetic testing. It wasn’t until Michelle provided her aunt’s test results to her own doctor that her insurance agreed to cover the test.
In 2010, Michelle tested positive for BRCA1, and with that knowledge, she was presented with two options: immediate preventive surgery—a mastectomy and hysterectomy—or regular monitoring with annual mammograms and breast MRIs. She chose to monitor her health. In 2016, just as she was preparing to schedule the surgery, a routine mammogram came back clear. However, two weeks later, a breast MRI revealed masses in her breast and lymph nodes. Michelle was diagnosed with Stage II Triple Negative Breast Cancer, a more aggressive type of breast cancer.
Her initial response was one of confusion. “Why didn’t these lumps show up on my mammogram?” she asked her doctor, who explained that due to her age and dense breast tissue, the masses likely wouldn’t have been detected until Stage 4.
Michelle emphasizes the importance of understanding the BRCA1 gene mutation. Often referred to as the “breast cancer gene,” BRCA1 doesn’t just increase the risk of breast cancer but also raises the likelihood of developing ovarian, prostate, and other cancers.
Her message to everyone, especially those with a strong family history of breast cancer, is clear: “Know your family history. Talk to your doctor about it. If genetic testing is recommended, fight for it—even if insurance companies are hesitant to pay for it, there are programs that can help.” She reminds men that they are just as likely to pass on the gene to their children and may also face breast cancer risks.
For Michelle, the impact of genetic testing doesn’t stop with her. Her son, also a carrier of the BRCA1 gene, will need to start mammogram screenings at the age of 18.
“Early detection saves lives,” Michelle urges. Her story is a powerful testament to the role family history, genetic testing, and early detection play in saving lives.
