is personal CLAIRE’S JOURNEY “That’s been the most difficult part, the part with grief and sadness. To realize some of my children have inherited this,” says Claire. “But my kids have truly been amazing. And Donna has been with me through the serious discussions and a lot of tears. I worry about my kids and my grandchildren, but I’m confident that there will be advances in medicine and immunotherapy for them. I understand how vulnerable I am, but I’m 70 years old and I’ve had a wonderful life. I choose to be positive. I feel grateful and blessed.” She adds, “The role my Christian faith and family have played in this journey has made the destination worth the trip. God has sustained me and given me peace. My church community has supported and encouraged me with their consistent prayers, concern and outreach. My husband, adult children and their spouses, sisters, and friends have been active listeners, kind and helpful in their responses, and loving, thoughtful encouragers. God, family, friends and the Augusta Cancer Center medical team have each separately and all together walked with me on this journey to acceptance, restoration and peace.” Claire finishes, “I’m OK until I’m not OK.” You are a candidate for and should consider screening for genetic cancer testing if you have: • Breast, colorectal or uterine cancer diagnosed before the age of 50. • More than one type of cancer. • Cancer in both of a set of paired organs (for example, both kidneys or both breasts) • Certain rare cancers (ovarian, male breast cancer or 10+ gastrointestinal polyps) • Two or more diagnoses of cancer on the same side of the family (for example, both on your mother’s side). Many insurance companies will cover genetic testing for those who meet the testing criteria. For more information on the cancer genetic screening program at Augusta Health, or to be screened to discover if you are a candidate for in-depth genetic cancer testing, contact Donna Markey, RN, MSN, ACNP-cs at the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, 540.245.7145 or dmarkey@augustahealth.com. 11 AUGUSTA HEALTH • CANCER PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT 2019
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