Beloved Wisconsin radio show host, Elizabeth Kay, has made the difficult decision to undergo a double mastectomy and have her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed after discovering she carries the BRCA2 gene. The 41-year-old host of 99.1 The MIX has been sharing her journey with her listeners, hoping to raise awareness about the importance of preventative measures.
Kay’s decision was prompted by a family history of breast cancer. Several members of her family have been diagnosed with the disease, including one family member who was diagnosed at a similar age to Kay. This led her to question whether the cancer was hereditary and what it meant for the rest of her family.
After consultations with doctors, Kay decided to undergo a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer. She plans to have reconstructive surgery following the mastectomy, as well as the removal of her ovaries and fallopian tubes.
In an Instagram post from her hospital bed, Kay expressed her determination to fight against cancer. She stated, “This is serious. It’s in my family and I am being proactive. I don’t want any part of cancer. And if I can be preventative and I have this information, I’m going to do something with it.”
The BRCA2 gene mutation increases the risk of breast, ovarian, and fallopian tube cancers. The gene provides instructions for making a protein that acts as a tumor suppressor. When the gene is mutated, it becomes less effective at creating the tumor-suppressing protein, making it less effective at preventing potential cancers.
This is not the first time Kay has undergone surgery for a selfless cause. In March 2021, she donated a kidney to a stranger in Kentucky on behalf of her mother-in-law, Camille, to help her find a better kidney match through the paired kidney exchange program.
Kay, who has been on the Milwaukee airwaves since 2009, often shares heartwarming images and clips of her family life with her husband Eric and their teenage son Brayson. Her openness about her surgeries and her commitment to raising awareness about hereditary cancer serve as an inspiration to her listeners and the community.
By sharing her story, Elizabeth Kay hopes to encourage others to be proactive about their health and take preventative measures when necessary. Her bravery and determination in the face of such a challenging situation are truly commendable.
How has Kay used her platform as a radio show host to raise awareness about the significance of genetic testing and preventative surgeries
Ily member who passed away from it. After learning about the BRCA2 gene mutation, which significantly increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, Kay decided to take proactive steps to safeguard her health.
As a popular radio show host, Kay has used her platform to educate listeners about the importance of early detection and taking preventative measures. By openly discussing her personal journey, she aims to raise awareness and encourage others to consider genetic testing and preventative surgeries.
The decision to have a double mastectomy and remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes was undoubtedly a difficult one for Kay. However, she bravely chose to prioritize her health and well-being. By undergoing these preventive procedures, she hopes to significantly reduce her chances of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
Kay’s family history of breast cancer undoubtedly played a significant role in her decision. With close relatives having been diagnosed with the disease, she knew she needed to take proactive steps to protect herself. The BRCA2 gene mutation, which she discovered she carries, further emphasized the importance of preventative measures.
Throughout her journey, Kay has shared her experiences, fears, and hopes with her audience. By doing so, she has not only provided a support system for herself but also inspired others facing similar situations. Her openness about the emotional and physical challenges of these procedures highlights the real-life impact of genetic mutations and the importance of taking necessary precautions.
With her radio show as a platform, Kay has shown immense courage and determination in raising awareness about the significance of genetic testing and preventative surgeries. By sharing her story, she has undoubtedly empowered many listeners to consider their own health and the potential risks they may face.
Ultimately, Kay’s decision to undergo a double mastectomy and remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes is a personal one. However, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of taking charge of our health, advocating for ourselves, and making educated choices to mitigate the risk of developing life-threatening diseases.
This article shines a light on the determination and resilience of a beloved radio show host who goes to extraordinary lengths to overcome a high cancer risk. It’s inspiring to see individuals taking drastic measures to maintain their health and continue doing what they love.