A former Collie resident is helping to raise awareness of the potentially deadly BRCA gene this Bright Pink Lipstick Day.
After finding out she was at risk of developing cancer, South West resident Sophie Bailey, took action to ensure she would be around to watch her two girls grow up.
“I found out I had the BRCA gene through my Aunty who developed breast cancer. I had never even heard of it before,” Ms Bailey said.
“It was a big shock to me as I knew that I have a 50/50 chance of getting this gene mutation.”
The BRCA gene mutation has the potential to develop into breast or ovarian cancer.
When the 30 year old mother of two found out her risks, she went on to research what information and help was available for people in her position.
“I started googling and that's when I found Pink Hope and a Pink Hope Facebook support page which was amazing after I found out I was positive to ask questions and see how other people are going and about their operations and experiences,” Ms Bailey said.
The Pink Hope organisation, who run Bright Pink Lipstick Day, aim to provide tools and information to help the general population “know” their risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and provide support and information to members of the at-risk community to help them appropriately manage and navigate their risk.
In May 2015 Ms Bailey visited a plastic surgeon and a gynecologist to discuss her options.
“Because of the breast and ovarian cancer risk in I had my Fallopian tubes and my ovary removed to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Because of the public waiting system with my double mastectomy it took a few years for my surgery to get booked in,” she said.
“On July 29, 2016 I had my first stage of my double mastectomy. They removed my nipples and all my breast tissue and put in expanders to stretch the skin and muscle and then my second operation to put my implants on 20th January 2017. I'm still recovering both emotionally and physically.”
Ms Bailey said she is thankful for the support she has received throughout her journey.
“It has been very hard for me and my family I'm so thankful for my mum who lives in Collie still and family that have supported me through this especially My fiancé,” she said.
Ms Bailey said people need to be aware of the risks and have an open conversation about them.
“One conversation could save your life,” she said.
“Talking about your cancer risk, whether these conversations are with your mother or daughter, brother or sister, or a close friend – gives you the power to be in control of your health and take action.”
Bright Pink Lipstick Day will be held on Friday, September 22, with fundraising events being held across the country.
For more information on Bright Pink Lipstick Day go to – www.pinkhope.org.au
