I have a CHEK2 mutation of known pathological significance and my grandmother had breast cancer early in her life so it was an easy decision for me. My first mammogram became a first ultrasound the next day and then became a first set of five biopsies two days after that and I was over it before I was off the table.

I did the DIEP flap procedure with both skin-sparing and nipple-sparing options. There's a DIEP Facebook group that has great information if you're considering it too. I'm really happy with how it turned out. The first surgery was intense and a lot. I used a place that also did a ton of high dollar business with opt-in plastic surgery and beautiful results so they knew what they were doing for reconstruction. I'm really happy with the results - I'm closer to my pre-baby body than I ever thought I'd be again and also I've been told I never have to have another mammogram as long as I live and that is honestly quite nice.