Hannah Howie’s life took a sudden turn a year before her impending marriage, with a shocking revelation from her past taking center stage. Her brother-in-law, Luke Emerton, unearthed a distressing family history while delving into their ancestry and family tree. The discovery revealed a lineage of women on her father’s side who had succumbed to breast cancer at a young age, including her grandmother.
This discovery prompted the 34-year-old Hannah to undergo genetic testing, revealing a faulty gene known as BRCA 2 that significantly elevates the risk of certain cancers. The presence of BRCA genes in every individual poses a potential risk, with a fault in one of them leading to DNA damage and potential cancerous cell growth. The revelation of the faulty gene spurred Hannah to take proactive steps in addressing the heightened risks associated with it.
Professor Zosia Miedzybrodska from the University of Aberdeen shed light on the impact of the BRCA 2 gene mutation, emphasizing the significant disparities in cancer risks between genders. Hannah, a cruise ship entertainer, made the pivotal decision to undergo genetic testing to assess her susceptibility to the gene. Her unwavering determination to uncover the truth stemmed from a personal need for reassurance and understanding.
Following the confirmation of the presence of the BRCA 2 gene in November 2023, Hannah immediately shifted gears into survivor mode. With a plethora of treatment options at her disposal, she decisively opted for a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery to mitigate the breast cancer risk. Supported by her husband Graeme McLean, Hannah embarks on a journey of resilience and adaptation, buoyed by her creative outlet in the form of a cabaret titled A Funeral for My Boobs. The newfound awareness of her genetic predisposition has propelled Hannah into a proactive stance, guiding her towards a future laden with cautious optimism and preparedness
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