So I have been hearing a lot lately about Lynch Syndrome by fellow CRC warriors out there (on multiple platforms) and started thinking, what is it and, do I have it?
I read an article online that discussed what Lynch Syndrome is and what the symptoms are. I was shocked to see that I pretty much lined up with all the symptoms of Lynch so I thought I’d better check with my doc (PCP) and see if it’s something I have or, should be concerned about getting.
So I discussed it with my doc and he gave me a referal to the University of Minnesota medical center and they sent me to the Windwoods hospital to do the blood draws and the genetic counseling session.
After learning the costs associated with the test (over $6000 US) I said, thanks but NO thanks. However, they said that I qualified for “assistance” based on my income so, my total out-of-pocket would only be a $100 bucks.
So I said, “sign me up!” I then proceeded with the testing and then waitied the 6 weeks to learn my fate. And, as you can see from the video above, I tested negative for Lynch Syndrome….woohoo!!
However, I did test positive for Skin Cancer and Pancreatic cancer. The skin cancer gene is a mutation that carries a 95% chance of getting skin cancer before the age of 75. The mutation for pancreatic cancer (I have NO clue how they’re math works) carries a 17% chance of getting that cancer before the age of 75.
So…..I guess for now, I will research these results and see if there is any way I can be proactive in my efforts to push these off as long as possible.
I’ll let ya all know how things develop and, turn out. Hope all is well with you and yours…..and, have yourself a wonderful weekend! –JR