I sleep a whole lot better now than I did a year ago thanks to a double mastectomy with reconstruction – even though I technically did not have breast cancer…yet.

Watching my 40 year old aunt die from breast cancer when I was only 12 made me vow I would never have the same fate. Yet, it was always in the back of my mind. At 32, when a routine follow-up mammogram for a non-cancerous lump showed that I had LCIS (precancerous cells in my milk ducts), I looked my future right in the eye and knew what had to be done. Dr. Logman, my breast surgeon, and I were on the same page about my treatment, and I have learned how very important that is for any woman with breast cancer. 

The reconstruction was a no-brainer since I’m so young, and I knew immediately that Dr. Kilgo on Long Island was the man for the job. He treated me like a friend and answered all of my questions even before I asked them. Seeing one of his former patients up close and personal clinched the deal. 

I was oddly happy and calm throughout all of my surgeries because I knew that I was making the right choices for me. Plus, I have the added benefit of looking even better than before!

Some may think my path was bold or unnecessary, but I think this experience brought out the best in me. I’ve always been a confident person, but freeing myself from the fear of getting breast cancer has only made me stronger.  In fact, I am the happiest I’ve ever been.

I’m about to have my final reconstructive surgery to create nipples. I have zero regrets about my choice and only have to look at my little daughter’s face to know that I made the right decision.