“Breast cancer? Not me. I’m a healthy 35-year-old nurse practitioner with no known family history of breast cancer. This must be a mistake.” Those were the first thoughts that passed through Bridget’s mind as she sat with her medical team and received the news that she had Stage 2 breast cancer.
“Not only was this diagnosis life-changing, I had just picked out my dress for my June wedding. What started as an exciting year of going to wedding venue appointments quickly changed into oncology appointments,” she shared. After multiple surgeries and ongoing maintenance therapy, she thought she’d closed the chapter on breast cancer. Turns out, it wasn’t the end of her journey.
Seven years later, lingering pain from a car accident led to the discovery of a breast cancer recurrence. Testing later confirmed it was metastatic, meaning the cancer had returned and spread beyond the breast and into other parts of her body.1
Despite the challenges, Bridget’s story is one of resilience and the power of self-advocacy. We talked to Bridget about her initial diagnosis and recurrence, what she wants others to know about breast cancer, genetic testing, and how finding the right treatment gave her newfound hope.
When the unexpected happened
“That September day in 2017 is quite possibly the day that saved my life,” Bridget notes. “After tackling a heavy day of yard cleanup, I found a lump on my breast while taking a shower that evening.”*
Bridget contacted her doctor, who recommended a mammogram and an ultrasound for assessment. From there she received a diagnosis: stage 2 invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer. Her next steps would be informed by her doctor’s advice and several weeks of genetic and biomarker testing.
Two months later, Bridget underwent a bilateral mastectomy, a surgery to remove her breasts,2 and took a medicine that helps reduce the risk of cancer coming back. After discovering that her cancer had a BRCA2 genetic mutation (which prevents the cells from repairing damaged DNA and increases a person's risk of developing several types of cancer, including ovarian), Bridget, together with her oncologist, decided to take a preventive approach and underwent surgery to remove her ovaries to lower her risk of developing these types of cancers.
Understanding the role of BRCA genes
The BRCA genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) are responsible for helping repair damaged DNA and keeping the cell healthy. Everyone has these genes, but when someone has an inherited mutation in either of the BRCA genes, the genes’ repair function can be lost—leading to an increased risk of developing certain cancers, including breast cancer.3
Genetic testing helps identify these mutations and may guide decision-making to help match patients with an appropriate care plan. When a genetic mutation is identified, family members are often encouraged to undergo testing for the same mutation, given that such mutations are inherited.3
“I never expected I would have a BRCA2 gene [mutation] because no one in my family had a history of breast cancer,” Bridget shared. "I highly encourage any women who have families with a history of breast cancer or certain other cancers to inquire about these genetic tests. Knowing your BRCA status can help inform your treatment plan.”
Hitting a roadblock and finding a new path forward
Fast forward to January 2024, when after a serious car accident, Bridget noticed an indentation* in her right breast and visited a plastic surgeon for breast revision surgery, during which a new growth with active cancer cells was found.
Bridget learned that her cancer had returned as metastatic† disease. “Both diagnoses were devastating, but the second time, I felt I was armed with experience from my first diagnosis,” Bridget shared. “With my supportive family and friends, along with my deeper understanding of advancements in science from my previous cancer journey I felt more confident in advocating for myself and was more optimistic knowing it was not curable, but still treatable.”
Hope through targeted treatments
After discussing her BRCA2 mutation status with her oncologist, Bridget learned that she was eligible for a targeted treatment called a PARP inhibitor. Tumors that have BRCA mutations are more sensitive to PARP inhibitor treatment because PARP inhibitors work by causing DNA damage that cells with BRCA mutations have trouble repairing.
“I feel grateful that I learned about my BRCA mutation through genetic testing and it helped provide knowledge to my doctor about my treatment plan. My doctor was able to offer a targeted treatment or my specific type of cancer,” Bridget shared. “This experience has given me a more positive mindset and a resilient perspective on life.”
Note: Bridget was compensated by AstraZeneca and Merck to share her story.
Finding strength through community
Bridget’s journey isn’t just about finding a tailored treatment—it’s also about the people around her.
“My care team, family, and friends remind me of my strength when I am weak,” Bridget shared. “They take small tasks off my plate and keep me going. This whole diagnosis has put life into perspective for me. With the appropriate treatments, I feel like I have a fighting chance. I’ve learned to appreciate the experiences that life brings me.”
Available resources and support
Breast cancer can happen to anyone no matter their age, race, or family genes. If you or a loved one is navigating breast cancer, consider asking your doctor about BRCA genetic testing. When it comes to BRCA mutation testing—don’t wait. Getting a BRCA mutation test early can give your doctor important information that can help you get the treatment that’s tailored for you. Support groups and community resources can also provide encouragement and connection during challenging times.
For more information about BRCA mutation testing and breast cancer, visit beBRCAware.com.
The information in this article should not take the place of speaking with your doctor or healthcare professional.
*These are not all the possible symptoms of breast cancer. Not all patients experience the same symptoms.
†A metastatic cancer is one that has spread to other parts of the body.
REFERENCES
Breastcancer.org. Breast Cancer Stages. Accessed September 30, 2025. https://www.breastcancer.org/pathology-report/breast-cancer-stages.
American Cancer Society. Mastectomy. Accessed September 30, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html.
National Cancer Institute. BRCA Gene Changes: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing. Accessed September 30, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet.
©2025 AstraZeneca. All rights reserved. US-104515 Last Updated 10/25
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