Holly Sabo, MHA, is an administrative director of Hospital Medicine, Pulmonary, Infectious Disease, and Palliative Care at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center Lahey Hospital & Medical Center.

Holly Sabo

Learning I carried the BRCA1 mutation was terrifying, but it gave me the power to choose prevention, embrace survivorship, and honor my journey with purpose.

For most of my life, cancer was not just a distant possibility — it was a painful reality. My mother and grandmother both lost their lives to ovarian cancer, and deep down, I always feared that my genes might carry the same fate. But no one ever told me about genetic testing, and for years, I was left wondering, worrying, and hoping that I was wrong.

It wasn’t until 10 years ago that my primary care provider introduced me to the world of BRCA1 genetic testing and the preventative screenings available to me. For the first time, I had options. I had a choice. And while the fear of a positive test result lingered, the uncertainty of not knowing felt even heavier.

A few years later, I finally found the courage to get tested. The wait was agonizing—five long weeks filled with endless thoughts, bracing myself for whatever truth awaited me. And then, on Christmas Eve, my genetic counselor called.

Fear washed over me, but strangely, so did relief. Knowing meant I could take action. Knowing meant I could take control of my health and future instead of living in the unknown.

I learned that being a previvor meant standing at the crossroads — between risk and prevention, between fear and empowerment. It meant facing tough decisions head-on and choosing what was right for me.

Some choose surveillance, some choose surgery, and some choose to wait—there is no right or wrong path, only the one that feels most aligned with your life and values.

I chose to take action, and that decision has shaped my entire journey. But beyond my personal story, I want others to know:

Genetic testing is available — and no one should have to wait years to learn about it. Your choices are yours to make — there is no pressure, only empowerment. Knowledge is power — and with it, you can write your own story.

As I stepped into life as a previvor, I wanted to honor my journey in a way that felt authentic to me. A tattoo wasn’t for me — but jewelry was. I loved the idea that I could wear something every day to symbolize not only who I am but what I’ve been through.

Jewelry has a unique ability to tell a story without words. It can be a quiet reminder of strength or a bold statement of resilience.

Cancer does not look the same for everyone. Some fight battles against cancer itself, while others carry genetic risks that shape their choices. Some support loved ones through treatment, while others advocate for awareness and change

That’s why I’m sharing my journey — not just for me, but for everyone out there who may be facing hereditary cancer risks, fear of the unknown, and the weight of tough decisions. If my story can help even one person find the strength to learn more about genetic testing, cancer mutations, and their options, then sharing it is worth it.

Broken Yet Unbreakable — that’s what my jewelry represents. That’s what my journey has taught me. And that’s what I want others to feel when they wear it.

If you’re navigating your own genetic risk, know that you are not alone. If you are searching for answers, keep advocating for yourself. And if you want to honor your journey, find a way that feels true to you — whether it’s jewelry, storytelling, or simply living with intention.

For more news on cancer updates, research and education, don’t forget to 

Articles

Genetic testing for BRCA1 mutations can empower individuals with a family history of cancer to make informed health decisions. The journey from fear to empowerment involves understanding one's genetic risks and choosing a path that aligns with personal values, whether through surveillance, surgery, or other means. Symbolism, such as jewelry, can serve as a personal reminder of resilience and strength. Sharing personal experiences can raise awareness and build community support for those facing hereditary cancer risks, emphasizing that knowledge and self-advocacy are powerful tools in navigating genetic risk.

Holly Sabo

Broken Yet Unbreakable: My Previvor Journey and the Power of Symbolism

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