My name is April Bhattacharya and I’ve created this blog to keep family and friends updated with my journey. I hope that others out there that are facing these same decisions find my blog encouraging and informative.

After losing multiple women in my family, including my mother, to breast cancer, I chose to have genetic testing. I found out in March 2010 that I tested positive for the BRCA2 mutation. This does not mean it causes breast or ovarian cancer, but it leads to an increased risk for its development. I have an 85% lifetime risk of breast cancer and a 40% lifetime risk of ovarian cancer. The general population’s lifetime risk for breast cancer is about 12% and less than 2% for ovarian cancer.

After doing much research, discussing things with my husband, talking with doctors and genetic counselors, I came to the conclusion that a prophylactic (preventative) bilateral mastectomy (removal of both breasts) and reconstruction would be my personal best decision. By having this surgery I reduce my risk of getting breast cancer by 90%. I have also taken on a vegan diet. At 23 years old, I am empowered to take steps to prevent breast and/or ovarian cancer from taking my life early. I am grateful to be a woman with options that could change the future of my family.

Friday, March 11, 2011

My 24th Birthday!!

My birthday on March 9th was so great!! Eric Clapton was amazing and it feels like it was a dream that I even went haha Me and Sameer spent the day walking around downtown Burbank with Audrina and then went to the show. Tonight (March 10th) we went to Real Food Daily for my birthday dinner. It's my favorite vegan restaurant in LA : ) mmmmmm their food is so yummy!!

I'm still having a hard time sleeping since my chest hurts from that last expansion, but the daytime is getting better. We have a little bit more time here in California. I'm looking forward to walking around The Grove and going on a hike in Malibu with one of my best friends over the next couple of days.

Here are some pictures from my birthday!


Enjoying the nice weather outside before the show started

These annoying tissue expanders finally came in handy! haha
Eric Clapton!!!
We had great seats and Mr. Clapton was amazing!!
Yay 24!!
My sweet girl Audrina waiting patiently for me to come back to the apartment


On our way to my birthday dinner at Real Food Daily tonight
Happy Birthday to me!!
I sure did enjoy my vegan coconut cake!
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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Happy belated birthday April! I'm glad you had a wonderful 24th birthday, I hope by now you're doing better pain wise. Audrina looks really sweet, thanks for sharing some pictures of her. Wow, you had your last expansion appointment! Praise God for the progress you're making! May He continue to bless you on your journey and may your 24th year of life be a great one!

Leece

March 15, 2011 at 6:38 PM
Hollie said...

Happy Birthday to a darling and phenomenal woman! I'm 33 and have just been diagnosed with breast cancer in my left breast. I'm having PBM in two weeks. I LOVE your blog. Your vulnerability and candor are so inspiring! I have just listed your blog in my blogroll on my breast cancer blog because I think your experience is so relevant and inspiring! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! <3 you!

Hollie

March 21, 2011 at 7:02 PM
April Bhattacharya said...

Hollie,

Thank you for the birthday wishes!! I'm so glad you've found my blog. I'm sorry to hear that you've been diagnosed with breast cancer. Please feel free to contact me anytime!! I know the surgery can bring a world of emotions, but I'm proud of you for going ahead with removing both breasts. You will be in my prayers!

Love-April

March 24, 2011 at 10:36 PM

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