Genetic Counselor Day

I don’t need to set alarms to get up anymore. If the kids don’t do it, the dog does.

This meant I wasn’t late for the virtual appointment with the genetics counselors. There were two – one was a student (I was fine having her on). They explained to me how we get our DNA…lol this was the part I could have fast-forwarded around. I see why they give the info, but the appointment wasn’t much more than that and going over my family history.

Based on my age and family history, they did order a genetics test. That will get sent to my house and I’ll return with my saliva in a tube. So there are “panels” you can test for. In my case, they recommend the breast cancer panel – one that covers all of the genes with breast cancer mutations. I opted for the full cancer panel that tests for all of them. The counselor did talk to me about billing – which is really interesting in this case.

Because the genetics counselor ordered the breast cancer panel, it’s generally covered by insurance. I’m opting for a wider range which will be more expensive, and insurance may not cover it. Now, the counselor told me the company who tests the DNA gives you the option of opting for an out-of-pocket flat fee – no matter the actual costs: $250. You have a limited amount of time to opt for this, but nice to know that’s an option. (I didn’t even ask what it was normally.)

The Mayo nurse called me twice today: once to move my in-person appointment to the 13th, and then once more to the 8th.

I’m meeting with an oncologist next week through the breast center up here to finalize the type of treatment I’d be getting.

Tomorrow is the PET scan – the big thing to worry about! 😉 I’ve already started my “diet” (it’s low/no carb and sugar). No coffee tomorrow. No food after 9:30. I have a feeling it’s going to be a long day.

I was in the office for the first time since diagnosis. Not everyone knows and there’s never a great time to break the news, so this part is pretty awkward. It’s not like I need to tell anyone but also…why? It’s going to be a huge part of my life. Thank god for the people who get it and ask “which one is it?” to break the silence. <3

I don’t like being the center of attention. Fine, I’m loud and opinionated but it’s not so people will look at me. I HATE being under a microscope and/or judged. A friend who’s been through cancer told me she didn’t want to be known for it – that’s the feeling. I don’t want that to be the first thing people think about me. There have already been a couple times an attorney has asked to take something off MY plate (LOLOLOLOL I love this place). I appreciate the sentiment but I’m still capable. Our team is capable. But you realize folks don’t know how to help, so they do little things to ease your burden. This is why it’s always good to take a breath before you respond to email. 😉 You realize it’s not about your capabilities – and that gives you a little smile.

I think having to tell everyone and dealing with all of the emotions is taking its toll. It does impact other people and not just my immediate family. I’m the rip-the-bandaid kinda person, but there are people you need to cry with, if that makes sense. It might be a while before I see them, so there’s part of the grieving that’s yet to come.

But, one day at a time.

We’ve got this. <3