Breast Cancer Survivor Genevieve Kroeker Shares Journey for BRA Day

When Genevieve Kroeker was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 35, her life took an unexpected turn. What should have been a celebratory time following her wedding quickly transformed into a series of challenging medical decisions. “I found it right after my wedding,” Kroeker explained. “As everybody’s supposed to be going on honeymoons and planning their family, I was deciding what to do for reconstruction.”

Three years post-diagnosis, Kroeker is sharing her experience in anticipation of Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day at St. Joseph’s Health Care London. The event is scheduled for October 23, 2023, from 18:00 to 21:00 and aims to educate breast cancer patients and survivors about their reconstruction options.

Facing Difficult Choices

Kroeker underwent a bilateral mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction using implants. Reflecting on her journey, she expresses gratitude for the choices she had, particularly the guidance from her surgeon, Dr. Sarah Knowles. “She asked me, ‘What do you think you’re going to want in three years when all of this part of the journey is done?’” Kroeker recalled. “And so, it really made me realize there’s a finish line.”

Despite the overwhelming nature of her situation, Kroeker found solace in connecting with others who faced similar decisions. “We’re human, and this is really, really hard to figure out,” she said. “So it’s nice to have support from people who have gone through it. You can say, ‘I’m going to make it through as well.’”

Empowering Patients through BRA Day

Dr. Knowles, medical director of the Breast Care Program at St. Joseph’s, emphasizes that BRA Day provides an essential platform for patients to gather information. “When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer or identified as being at increased risk, it’s a very stressful time,” Knowles stated. “There are a lot of decisions to make, and sometimes women feel overwhelmed or confused by all the options.”

The event will feature presentations, panel discussions, and the chance to meet other survivors who have undergone various types of reconstruction. This year, Kroeker will also serve as one of the models at the event, hoping her story can provide reassurance and inspiration to those just beginning their breast cancer journey.

Kroeker’s narrative underscores the importance of community and shared experiences in navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. As BRA Day approaches, her journey serves as a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of informed choices in the face of adversity.