Nikki Barclay just turned 41 when she learned she had breast cancer. “My doctor recommended I start having mammograms every year beginning at age 40. This was my second routine screening,” or so she thought. “I did not expect any issues at all, especially at my age,” she begins telling her story during The Breast of Everything podcast. 

The mammogram showed suspicious-looking calcium deposits that required a biopsy. The results? Nikki had extensive DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), considered the earliest form of breast cancer. She didn’t feel any lumps in her breast, she didn’t feel sick, and she was so young. This was not supposed to happen to a young wife and mother of two children ages 2 and 5.

After extensive conversations with her breast surgeon, Ashley Richardson, DO, FACOS, of Comprehensive Breast Care, Nikki chose a double mastectomy. The results of her genetic test were the reason for her decision. Nikki didn’t realize how learning of her genetic mutation would benefit her as well as her family.

To hear Nikki’s story and the importance of genetic testing, listen to this The Breast of Everything episode, hosted by Dr. Ashley Richardson.