News & Stories

“I am living proof of how genetic testing can change lives. If my story has taught me anything, it’s that knowledge truly is power.”

“In 2015, my middle sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. As part of her treatment, she had genetic testing and was found to carry the BRCA gene mutation—something that significantly increases the risk for breast and ovarian cancers.”

“Her diagnosis and test results prompted my youngest sister and me to get tested as well. While focused on supporting her through treatment, the results added a new layer to our family’s story: our youngest sister tested negative, and I tested positive.”

“At first, it was shocking. But having this information gave me a powerful opportunity—the chance to be proactive and take control of my health. I chose preventive surgery to remove my ovaries, knowing ovarian cancer often doesn’t show symptoms until it’s advanced. At my two-week follow-up, my doctor told me there were already early signs of cancer. That moment was sobering and reinforced that without genetic testing, I never would have known. It saved my life.”

“I went through treatment with the incredible care of Dr. Warshal and his team at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. A few years later, the cancer returned. I had another full course of chemotherapy, and afterward, began a genetically targeted oral medication for BRCA mutation carriers. While not a cure, it works by interacting with the genes to help prevent new cancers—and it’s helped keep mine at bay ever since.”

“When my daughter got engaged, we discussed the possibility of her getting tested, too. She chose to do it before starting a family, and her results came back positive for the BRCA mutation. It was emotional, but we both saw it as a gift: now she has the power to take preventive steps, monitor her health, and make informed decisions for her future.”

Photo: Ilene Grossman with David P. Warshal, MD, FACOG (left), her husband Harry, daughter Molly, mother-in-law Debbie and son Isaac.

Funding from the William G. Rohrer Charitable Foundation has helped to develop both the clinical and laboratory components of the genetics program. This program also ensures that novel genetic testing approaches are available both to patients with cancer as well as unaffected individuals, such as family members.