Vanessa Pomeranetz

My Family’s Journey with cancer

Cancer is a word that holds immense weight in my family. Both of my parents have battled multiple forms of this disease. My mum has faced breast cancer twice, undergoing reconstructive surgery and an oophorectomy, while my dad has fought five different types of cancer, including skin, prostate, liver, and bowel cancer. Chemotherapy became a constant in our lives, with my mum also enduring radiation therapy.

As if that wasn’t enough, my siblings and I were dealt another blow—we discovered we all carry the BRCA1 gene. For my sister and me, this means our risk of developing breast cancer increases to 70%. Despite the odds being 4 to 1, all four of us tested positive for the gene. This news hit hard, knowing that cancer isn't just a possibility for us, but a heightened reality for the girls in my family.

Watching my parents endure this disease has been incredibly difficult. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone, and the thought of facing it myself is terrifying. That’s why the decision to take preventative measures is such a tough one. Choosing to undergo surgeries like a double mastectomy and, later, a hysterectomy feels overwhelming, but I know it’s the best way to protect my health and future.

Cancer has shaped my life, but it won’t define my future. Through awareness, early detection, and tough choices, I’ll do everything I can to stay healthy for myself and my family.

I’m walking for a cancer free future

I’m taking on 7 Bridges Walk on Sunday 20 October 2024 and will be uniting with the community to walk 28km around Sydney Harbour. 

I'll be walking for my parents! Together they have been struck by cancer 7 times, and that's 7 times too many! They're both a testament to strength and resilience with everything they have faced and the least I can do is walk an easy 28kms, which is nothing compared to what they have faced. 

Share the love and sponsor me to help those affected by cancer. Every step counts because all funds raised will help Cancer Council NSW work towards the vision of a cancer free future. Thank you for your support!