Written by Kelley Jones
My family has strong traits that have been inherited throughout the years. We are artistic, funny and outgoing. With the good comes diversity; we have battled cancer throughout the generations too.
I lost my second cousin to breast cancer at 28. Then in 2003, I lost my grandmother to a ten-year battle with the same disease. A few months later, my mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. My grandmother once said, “Something runs in this family, I know it.” My mother took action, with the help of a genetic counselor she
tested positive for the BRCA1 mutation and had a preventive double mastectomy. She broke the cycle!
At 24, I tested positive for the same mutation. I feel empowered that I can take control of my personal health with knowledge and proactive health monitoring. My genetic counselor handed me a stack of informational literature to read at home. In a sea of black and white flyers, I came across a Bright Pink brochure. I went to their website BrightPink.org and felt relieved to find other young women throughout the nation in my situation, and to know there was this comforting place of support and education out there just for us.
Here are some details on some of the educational and support programs Bright Pink offers:
Earlier this year, Bright Pink launched a Genetic Counselor approved “Assess Your Risk Quiz Tool” that every woman should take. It’s not about awareness; we all know about cancer, it’s about action. This quick online test is the first step to take action against your personal ovarian and breast cancer health. Next time you’re on your commute to work, take a break from social media and complete this tool! I also encourage everyone to sign-up for Underwire Alerts TM. Through Underwire Alerts, Bright Pink texts you once a month to remind you to check your breasts. Signing up is easy, text “PINK” to “59227”. Message and data rates may apply.
Bright Pink Boston meets monthly for Experiential Outreach Groups exclusively for young woman at high-risk for breast/ovarian cancer. It’s our version of a support group. We offer a fun activity followed by a supportive discussion to connect with other Bright Pink women in our community and discuss mutual experiences.
Bright Pink also conducts Brighten Up TM educational presentation on breast and ovarian health. This is designed for all women (is relevant for men, too!) to educate them on how to be proactive with their health. Bright Pink ambassadors host these presentations at companies and institutions throughout the country by educating employees in a lunch and learn format. If you are interested in bringing a Brighten Up to your community, email [email protected].
If you are interested in learning more about our local community here in Boston, please reach out to [email protected]
Kelley Jones is a native of Newburyport, MA but has lived in Southie for the past seven years. She is also the Outreach Ambassador for the Boston Chapter of Bright Pink.
