Today, more than 250,000 women under the age of 40 in the U.S. are breast cancer survivors. I am lucky to be one of them.

My mother is also a breast cancer survivor. I underwent genetic testing and learned I have a mutation in the BRCA 1 gene, making me more susceptible to breast and ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or ovarian cancer on either side of a family (Mother’s or Father’s side) can put someone at higher risk for developing the disease. Because of this, my doctor ordered a variety of screening tests that try to detect cancer in its earliest stages (when it is most treatable). One of these tests was a breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, and it saved my life. - MRI is one of the breast screening tests recommended by the American Cancer Society for women at increased risk for breast cancer.

(MRI is not recommended as a screening tool for women at average risk for breast cancer). Unfortunately though, this service is not always covered by insurance and many women across the country cannot afford the high costs of a breast MRI. I hope, through Right Action for Women, we can continue providing assistance to those individuals who are at increased risk for breast cancer and do not have insurance or the financial flexibility to cover the high costs associated with breast screenings. The unfortunate reality is that many women face a financial barrier to access appropriate screenings.

Right Action for Women is committed to helping women access the information and advanced screening tests they need to beat this disease and to stay healthy. We encourage you to read through the information provided on these pages and to visit the resource center that provides you with links to important websites. Educate yourself, know your family history and talk to your healthcare provider about your risk for cancer at your next visit.