Share Your Story: Krystal Barter

Cancer has plagued Krystal Barter’s family for generations: her Mum at 36, her Nan at 44, and her great-grandma at 68. In her twenties, Krystal discovered this was not by chance, but that she was the carrier of a genetic mutation, BRCA1. At the age of 25, she surgically removed her breasts and she became a preventative cancer advocate launching Pink Hope.

01:10: Why don't you take us back to the beginning of your cancer journey?
03:25: The only two survivors in my family are myself and my mom.
05:39: I don't ever think I ever really got my mom back.
07:20: How did it affect your relationship with your mother?
09:24: How much are they aware of this family history from a young age?
11:05: When did you get tested? Why was that the right time? And what did you do?
13:50: The geneticist said Krystal you're positive, but your outcome will be completely different.
17:14: I went for a mammogram every year and an ultrasound.
18:58: I decided that I was going to try and help others get access to genetic testing.
20:58: I've had lots more surgeries that pale in comparison to the mastectomy.
23:18: I shared my story on 60 Minutes.
27:20: I found it hard to get the support I needed.
29:13: It was hard being in high school and hating my breasts in my own body.
29:40: What was your worst moment?
31:14: I had to have everything removed, obviously [a] hysterectomy.
35:18: What is one thing that you would do to improve the health care system in Australia?
39:23: We have lobbied for change for BRCA gene testing.
42:05: The health care system is broken and that's being kind.
42:53: Thriver Rapid Fire Questions
44:30: Aside from Cancer U, what is one resource that you would recommend for cancer patients and caregivers?

Resources

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