A Tampa Bay area family is raising awareness about the importance of genetic testing, particularly for those with a family history of breast cancer, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Mandi Johnson, age 43, emphasizes the potential life-saving benefits of genetic testing after discovering she carries the BRCA 1 gene, which significantly increases the risk of developing breast and other cancers.
Mandi’s journey began when her doctor recommended genetic testing due to her family history. Initially hesitant due to the $250 cost, she felt compelled to proceed, leading to a life-altering diagnosis. “It kind of changed the trajectory of my next year,” Mandi explained. With the knowledge of her genetic predisposition, she opted for preventative measures, including a double mastectomy and hysterectomy, reflecting the family’s ongoing battle with cancer.
The BRCA 1 gene has a profound impact on Mandi’s family. Her aunt received a late-stage breast cancer diagnosis at just 39 years old, which highlighted the genetic mutation’s presence. Mandi’s 23-year-old daughter tested negative for the gene, while her 64-year-old mother also carries it, showcasing the gene’s prevalence in their lineage.
Mandi noted that medical guidance indicated she should have undergone a mastectomy at 29 years old. “But then, Skylar was diagnosed at 29,” she remarked, referring to her cousin, Skylar Trujillo, who is currently battling stage three triple negative metastatic breast cancer. Skylar, also a carrier of the BRCA 1 gene, expressed her concerns for her four children. “The first thing I think is oh my gosh, I have four kids, so now I have to worry about them,” she said.
Skylar’s cancer journey began after she noticed a lump shortly after breastfeeding her youngest child. Her doctors at Moffitt Cancer Center have reported a 50% tumor shrinkage as she participates in a clinical trial involving weekly treatments and immunotherapy. Despite her efforts to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children, she is aware of the emotional toll her condition takes on her family.
“I try to be as strong as I can for my kids, but I don’t like them seeing me, like, sad or upset or sick,” Skylar shared. She is preparing for a double mastectomy followed by 35 weeks of radiation treatment. Her aim is to raise awareness about genetic testing, a subject she was unaware of until Mandi brought it to her attention.
Both Mandi and Skylar have taken to sharing their experiences to highlight the critical nature of early testing and preventative action. “I’m young myself and I’ve seen younger people in there after me doing the same treatments that I’m doing, so it’s very hard,” Skylar stated. She aspires to advocate for younger women facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and support.
To support their cause, the non-profit organization Nickels for Nipples is hosting a fundraiser on October 19, 2023, from 15:00 to 20:00 at the Texas Roadhouse in Brooksville, Florida. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Skylar and her family. Additionally, Mandi’s company, Next Path Career Partners, is sponsoring their participation in the Miles for Moffitt event on November 22, 2023, encouraging community involvement.
Skylar has also set up a GoFundMe campaign to help alleviate the financial burdens associated with her treatment. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by families affected by cancer and the importance of genetic testing in making informed health decisions.