How does someone tell the story of genetic risk?

Narrative medicine, story telling, BRCA and breast cancer. In this conversation, Sarah shares their personal journey with being a BRCA1 carrier and experiences with breast cancer. She discusses the emotional weight of genetic risk, the complexities of identity as a previvor, and the importance of narrative in understanding and coping with illness. Sarah also reflects on their professional background in medical anthropology and genetic counseling, emphasizing the need for patient-centered care and the power of storytelling in healthcare. The discussion touches on themes of grief, hope, and the ongoing nature of living with a genetic condition, culminating in Sarah's insights on how poetry and narrative can help articulate the complexities of these experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Poetry allows for flexibility in expressing complex emotions.
• Language can create a sense of community but also exclusion.
• Grief is a central part of living with a genetic condition.
• Precision medicine must consider the holistic care of patients.

Sarah Roth (@othersarah) is a writer, educator, and genetic counselor based in Baltimore. Her literary work appears in Columbia Journal, Denver Quarterly, Notre Dame Review, and elsewhere, and she ​is an assistant poetry editor at Asymptote Journal and editor in chief of Tendon Magazine. Sarah holds an MFA in Creative Writing from University of Notre Dame and is currently completing her PhD at Johns Hopkins University.

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Here are more resources related to today’s topic:

• Sarah’s website 
• Synapsis: A Health Humanities Journal
• Tendon Magazine
• Episode 19- How does genetics impact cancer? With Barry Tong

Any inquiries on the podcast can be sent to AllAccessDNA@gmail.com

Note that this podcast is for entertainment and education and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health.

The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Casey Lepley.