The Gift of Knowledge, the Cost of Action: Advocating to Reduce Cancer Risk

PodcastRegarding Me
Written By Luan Lawrenson-Woods

Introducing: Sarah

What does an ATM genetic mutation mean for cancer risk?

Before she passed from metastatic breast cancer, Sarah’s mum gave her the greatest gift: knowledge that may help Sarah future-proof her health.

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Sarah Wallace opens up about what it means to self-advocate when you live with inherited risk factors for breast cancer but no diagnosis. For her, it’s a complicated space: considered ‘elective’ in the system, but a risk too great for her to wait.

When prevention comes at a financial cost

Sarah is now facing the possibility of accessing her superannuation again, drawing on the small amount she’s managed to save since using every cent to fund IVF.

Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder that advocacy is not only about facing a diagnosis. It is also about the courage to act before one comes.

A note for listeners: this episode discusses fertility challenges, pregnancy loss and related experiences. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you. It’s always okay to pause or step away if you need to.

A 35% risk. At first, Sarah thought that didn’t sound too bad. Then she realised it was more than 1 in 3.

In this episode:

  • The inherited cancer risk space, and why it can leave women feeling invisible

  • How her mum’s knowledge shaped Sarah’s decisions around genetic testing

  • Why she feels risk-reduction surgery using her superannuation is her only option

  • What it looks like to advocate for yourself in the gaps, between risk and prevention, system and self

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Luan Lawrenson-Woods
Next

The $50K+ Cost of Hope: IVF, Superannuation & the 4 Hardships Women Face