My Sister Terri Written by Kim Trofimuk Terri Duffy

After losing our oldest sister, Cindy Hoffman, to breast cancer at the young age of 42, we became very vigilant with yearly mammograms, monthly self checks, and educating ourselves about this dreaded disease that took our sister away from her husband, young son, and us. A year after Cindy's passing,  Terri, Debbie, and I were all tested at the Hillman Cancer Center for any cancer related genes that may have explained Cindy's onset of breast cancer at age 35. We were all relieved when the testing was negative. Throughout the past 11 years, we have all had scares along the way which included repeat mammograms, diagnostic ultrasounds, needle aspirations, biopsies, and lumpectomies. It was then suggested that we all repeat genetic testing since new breast cancer causing genes had been discovered since our last tests. Terri and I tested positive for the Chek2 gene. This gene is associated with breast, colon, and prostate cancer, all of which have showed up on our dad's side of the family. Our increased risk for breast cancer jumped to as high as 48%. Terri and I have chosen to be proactive instead of having MRI's alternating with mammograms every 6 months and being placed on raloxifene for the rest of our  lives   The thought of going through the stress and anxiety twice a year, as well as taking a medication that increases your risk of developing  other types of cancers,  was just not an option.  Terri will courageously undergo a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery on Friday, August 25th. Terri's sight will be updated to keep her family and friends informed of her progress. Please keep Terri in your prayers throughout her brave journey. If you would like to support Terri and her family by providing a meal,  please click on  "ways to help",  then click on  "our planner".  You will be prompted to chose a day.  Thank you for visiting her site and supporting Terri.