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, Lauren Yerkes shares the life-altering moment that reshaped everything: being diagnosed with Stage 2B Triple Negative Breast Cancer in April 2022, just three days before her 38th birthday. She later learned she was also BRCA2 positive, adding another layer to an already overwhelming journey. What followed was a season of fear, resilience, and transformation that she never could have prepared for.
Lauren opens up about the shock of her diagnosis, the emotional weight of facing such an aggressive cancer at a young age, and how treatment changed her physically and mentally. But she also takes us into the unexpected part of her story, the part that became her purpose.
After finishing treatment, Lauren created Post Swim, a post-mastectomy swimwear brand designed to support women who are healing, rebuilding confidence, and learning to love their bodies again. What began as her personal struggle grew into a mission to help survivors feel seen, supported, and comfortable in their skin.
This conversation is honest, warm, and deeply inspiring. If you’ve ever wondered how Post Swim came to be—or how someone finds purpose inside the hardest chapter of their life — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. And as a special thank-you to our listeners, Lauren is offering 20% off your Post Swim order with the exclusive code LIVINGWITHBRCA.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.