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.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Sorry for the delay!...again...

I'm so stressed out that I haven't been able to do a longer update! I had company in town and then caught a nasty cold or flu. Blah. But I'm all better now thank goodness! Just in time for the holiday!!

I actually have a general follow up with my plastic surgeon this Monday 25th. Now that I have this appointment I would rather meet with him to talk through some things and then do a more lengthly update here :) Thank you all for your kind comments and emails! I love hearing everyone's story. I hope y'all have a great and happy thanksgiving!! More to be updated here soon.

Love-April
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10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Dear April,

I just found your blog. It was exactly what I was looking for, with a lot of details about your personal journey, pictures, feelings, …all informations that we cannot find on specialized websites. I an 36 and think about PBM in the coming years, but I am just frightened because I am mother of 3 (soon 4) children. Your blog means so much for "BRCA-mates" that I can't wait for your update!!!! After sharing so much details, please give us the chance to see how you are now, two years after the surgery. I wish you all the best and thank you for you help. Catherine ( Belgium)

December 4, 2013 at 4:21 AM
Anonymous said...

Please update soon....Thank you!

December 9, 2013 at 2:10 PM
Anonymous said...

Curious on ur update If u are feeling up to it. I am right in the middle of reconstruction and have tracked ur blog from the onset. Just wondering what happened.

December 18, 2013 at 7:56 PM
Anonymous said...

I hope everything is going well with you. I am a brca1 carrier and have scheduled my prophylactic bilateral mastectomy & reconstruction for May 12th. Your details and images have been very helpful as it really gives me an idea of what I'm up against. I'm curious as to why you redid your surgery. Please write when you get a chance. -Michelle

January 8, 2014 at 8:17 AM
shirley said...

would love to hear an update

February 19, 2014 at 11:45 PM
Anonymous said...

please update!

April 9, 2014 at 4:47 PM
Unknown said...

What exactly do mastectomy bras do? I have heard of them before and I just do not know what they are for. I am just hoping that it is not too confusing.
Jak Manson | http://diannesmastectomy.com/category/bras/

May 12, 2014 at 10:06 AM
Michelle said...

Your blog was so helpful! I would love to hear an update for you. Will you be blogging again soon?

March 1, 2015 at 6:14 PM
ammumalar said...

nice informations very useful for my family, great tips

June 10, 2015 at 6:22 AM
Anonymous said...


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Breast Reconstruction in Dubai

September 9, 2021 at 4:24 AM

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