Today I had a video consultation with the genetics team in Southampton. This is just to reconfirm that I am BRCA1 positive, and my options for surgery, etc. They reconfirmed the options, and I explain that I was swaying towards the DIEP FLAP surgery (tummy fat being made into Boobs), so the Dr explained that she is going to book me in for a consultation with Salisbury Hospital so that I can meet with the plastic surgeon to discuss my options and go through the surgery processes, etc.
She explained that with surgery they like you to have a BMI of 30 or under, and I worked out that I am currently 33! I blame the steroids! I have put on about 10kg since starting chemo, which is great, much better than losing weight, but now, I need to lose it again! Dammit!
We also then discussed that I will be receiving some letters that I can give my mum, dad, and brother so that they can get referred to have their genetics tested. We need to see where my BRCA gene came from so that we can inform other members of my family to get checked. E.g., I have a niece. If my brother has the gene, she will need to be tested when she is older to ensure that she makes the right choices with her body to prevent her from getting cancer, etc.
Off the back of the consultation, I am happy that I am going to get the chance to see a plastic surgeon face to face to discuss my surgery options.