There are limits to genetic testing

Genetic testing recommended to anyone with a suspicious family history Angelina Jolie stunned the world when she announced that she’d had a double mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery after finding out that she had a “faulty” gene linked to breast and ovarian cancer. For the first time ever, I became interested in a Hollywood boob job. Jolie has put “a …

Find peace of mind in getting your tests done, whether for lumps or lead

Like the classrooms of yesteryear, I’ve received a reminder that: some tests are easier than others; some test results are easier to wait for than others; and avoiding these tests won’t improve the situation. If you’ve been following my columns, you’ll know that last month I was told I had to get a lead test for my water, and a …

Cancer is no laughing matter — but humour gets the message out

When I found the lump, I was not pleased. (I wish I could tell you I was talking about a lump in my signature gravy or in my cream of wheat.) As I checked and re-checked my 38-year-old self, I had five thoughts: * My kids will have to grow up without their mom. * Could I lose my partner …

Spread the word: early detection of a breast lump can save a life

Editorial & Opinion, Wednesday, October 31, 2007, p. A8 With the change of seasons, I recently switched purses, which necessitated a major sorting and downsizing of the contents of my handbag. I found three lipsticks that I had completely forgotten about, and realized that half the space in my bag was being taken up by my keys and their respective …