BRCA & Beyond is where real talk meets real life with a gene mutation. I’m Marisa, a BRCA2 previvor, colon cancer survivor, wife, and mom of two, and I know firsthand how overwhelming, emotional, and downright confusing this journey can be. But here’s the truth — your gene mutation does not define you. Your choices do. And there is a full, beautiful life waiting beyond this diagnosis.
Here, we’ll talk about the decisions no one ever expects to face, the emotions that come with them, and the messy, beautiful, complicated life that happens in between. You’ll hear honest stories (mine and others’), practical tips, and guides that make the path a little clearer. We’ll welcome guests who share their own journeys and expertise, offering fresh perspectives, hope, and encouragement. We’ll laugh when we can, cry when we need to, and remind each other that joy still exists, even in the chaos.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, deep into decision-making, or simply searching for connection, this is a space to feel understood, supported, and never alone. Pull up a seat, friend. We’re in this together.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
BRCA & Beyond is where real talk meets real life with a gene mutation. I’m Marisa, a BRCA2 previvor, colon cancer survivor, wife, and mom of two, and I know firsthand how overwhelming, emotional, and downright confusing this journey can be. But here’s the truth — your gene mutation does not define you. Your choices do. And there is a full, beautiful life waiting beyond this diagnosis.
Here, we’ll talk about the decisions no one ever expects to face, the emotions that come with them, and the messy, beautiful, complicated life that happens in between. You’ll hear honest stories (mine and others’), practical tips, and guides that make the path a little clearer. We’ll welcome guests who share their own journeys and expertise, offering fresh perspectives, hope, and encouragement. We’ll laugh when we can, cry when we need to, and remind each other that joy still exists, even in the chaos.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, deep into decision-making, or simply searching for connection, this is a space to feel understood, supported, and never alone. Pull up a seat, friend. We’re in this together.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode we’re diving into the often-unspoken emotional and mental health layers of a BRCA or cancer diagnosis, the anxiety, grief, fear, and mental load that can linger long after the medical conversations end.
I’m joined by Laura, a licensed psychotherapist in New York and New Jersey and a National Certified Counselor, who works closely with women navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, physical illness, self-esteem struggles, religious and spiritual concerns, and relationship challenges. Laura has a special passion for supporting previvors—individuals living with increased hereditary cancer risk, including BRCA carriers—and understands the unique emotional toll that comes with knowing your risk before illness ever appears.
Together, we talk about why these feelings are so common, why they make sense, and how women can begin to process the invisible trauma that often accompanies a diagnosis or genetic discovery. This conversation is validating, grounding, and a reminder that your emotional experience deserves just as much care as your physical health.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure why this journey feels heavier than you expected—this episode is for you.
✨ Connect with Laura:
Instagram: @healinginstrides
Website: https://www.healinginstridestherapy.com/
🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.