From Fear to Freedom: Sharing my journey as a BRCA carrier
From the moment I found out I was a BRCA gene carrier I felt an overwhelming need for information and to connect with others in similar situations. I was in my twenties, about to get married, and I needed to know more. Thankfully, I was told about Sharsheret. They gave me the help that I needed, combined with medical and family support, to make the decision to undergo biannual testing to stay ‘one step ahead’. As time went on, having undergone numerous biopsies and wanting to focus on growing my family, I had begun living a life consumed by fear. I decided to do what I hadn’t imagined I would ever consider, I underwent a prophylactic double mastectomy. I chose a dream team of doctors (after being shocked by the insensitivity of various medical professionals) and with the support of Sharsheret, I began this next journey. I maintained my privacy throughout that period of time, not putting my story out there for all to hear and weigh in on. However, I have now come to feel a sense of pride, relief and confidence in my decision and the journey I went on as an individual, a young wife, and mother. The more I shared the more people opened up and I realized the importance of paying it forward. Everyone’s journey is different, but feeling like you are standing tall on love, support and generosity of spirit, I believe, is the best way to move forward, stay focused, and heal.
To view Liora’s film “From Fear to Freedom” visit http://www.docyourstory.com/portfolio_page/liora/
To view the trailer of Liora’s film “From Fear to Freedom” visit https://vimeo.com/154630179
Liora’s video, “From Fear to Freedom” was produced by docyourstory.