Myriad Genetics Blog Myriad Genetics Blog > Facing Fear, Finding Strength: Jodi’s Story of Genetic Testing and Prevention Facing Fear, Finding Strength: Jodi’s Story of Genetic Testing and Prevention August 26, 2025 Hereditary Cancer MyRisk Patient Story Women's Health Jodi grew up with a fear of cancer from young adulthood. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 51, and her maternal grandfather was also diagnosed with breast cancer at 55 – a rare occurrence in men. Because of these diagnoses, Jodi always wondered if she might have a higher risk of developing cancer. “I had always been very afraid of cancer because of my family history of not just breast cancer but other types of cancer as well,” she shared. When Linda New, PA-C, first met Jodi she was following her own personal motto when it comes to cancer screening in a standard well-woman exam: ‘every patient, every visit.’ Jodi’s family history immediately stuck out – rare cancer diagnoses in a family can qualify a patient for additional hereditary cancer screenings. After learning more about Jodi’s family history of cancer, Linda suggested Jodi take the MyRisk® Hereditary Cancer Test to determine if she had a genetic mutation making her predisposed to cancer. “It was a hard decision, but I did it knowing I’ve always been afraid of cancer,” said Jodi. Jodi was tested in Linda’s office via a simple blood draw. In just a few weeks, Jodi’s initial suspicions were confirmed: She tested positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation. Immediately, Jodi and Linda worked together to formulate a plan for preventative care which included breast MRIs, pelvic ultrasounds, and a referral to a breast specialist. Jodi eventually took the brave step of proactively having her ovaries removed, followed by a double mastectomy. “Jodi trusted the process and moved at her own pace,” said Linda. “When I saw her after surgery, it was emotional. It reminded me why I do this.” While Jodi feels empowered by the decisions she was able to make for her care, she doesn’t want to think about what life could have been like if she hadn’t been tested. Jodi’s half-sister declined hereditary cancer screening and passed away from uterine cancer. While she can’t know if screening could have saved her life, or if she was even BRCA2 mutation positive like Jodi, she believes it may have helped. “I don’t know if she would’ve made the same choices I did, but she and her doctor might’ve done more monitoring,” said Jodi. “They might’ve caught it earlier. I do believe it could’ve made a difference.” Jodi hopes her story will empower those who may be hesitant to get additional screenings if they qualify. “I would say, just get tested. If you have a history of cancer and you have any doubt that you could have a gene mutation associated with cancer to go ahead and get a simple blood test. It’s better to know – whatever decision you make. You decide and at least know you have those tools you need to make decisions.” Linda echoes Jodi’s sentiment. While most of her patients readily agree to testing, when she does encounter hesitation, she focuses on education and empowerment. “I explain [to my patients] that this test gives knowledge and power. We can do more frequent screenings, take preventative measures, and if they have children, we may even be saving their lives.” The Power of Knowing Your Family History and Genetic Testing Jodi’s story exemplifies how genetic testing can be lifesaving – not only for individuals like her, but for entire families. Knowing your family history and understanding if you have a BRCA1, BRCA2 or other hereditary cancer mutation can significantly impact your chance of detecting cancer early or even preventing it altogether. Important risk factors to understand are: Family history of cancer that is diagnosed at a young age (50 or younger), like breast cancer diagnosed at age 45 Multiples of the same type of cancers on the same side of the family – like three colorectal cancers on the paternal side Rare cancers like ovarian, pancreatic cancer, or male breast cancer For more information about hereditary cancer testing, genetic testing, cancer risk factors, and more, visit Myriad.com/getmyrisk.