Double mastectomy next week: need some support for the final stretch

Hello, my preventive mastectomy is scheduled for next Wednesday, one week before my 27th birthday, almost 6 months after I found out I carry the BRCA2 mutation inherited from my father (I’m the only daughter in the family). I found out because my mother had breast cancer at age 29, and genetic testing finally revealed that I’m at increased risk due to both my parents’ genetic...

I’m convinced this is the right decision that will allow me to live peacefully and look forward to the future—but the process itself (the surgery, which will be my first, and the recovery) obviously scares me, as does coming to terms with my new appearance (immediate reconstruction using implants slightly larger than my natural breasts). These are mixed feelings because I’m also glad that my transfer entitles me to this surgery: having started surveillance in my early twenties, I imagined I’d have to live with that monitoring and that sword hanging over my head, and it was an immense source of anxiety. I’ll finally be able to move forward.

Over the past few months, I’ve read so many personal accounts that have helped me. Could you share yours with me one last time, and if so, tell me how the mastectomy has given you a sense of physical and mental freedom? I really want to arrive at the hospital with a determined mindset, proud of this proactive step for my health and my future. Thank you ❤