The Positive Gene Podcast

Sara Kavanaugh
  • 5.0 (13)
  • Medicine
  • Monthly

Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we empower those navigating hereditary cancer risks with hope and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a hereditary cancer previvor living with Lynch Syndrome (MSH6) and CHEK2 genetic mutations, this show offers a unique perspective on proactive well-being. Drawing on her own experiences and work as an advocate for FORCE, Sara bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and the realities of life as a previvor. Through engaging discussions with experts, advocates, and fellow previvors and survivors, Sara simplifies the complexities of hereditary risk and provides insights that empower listeners to face challenges with confidence. With a background as a communications expert and storyteller, she creates a space where education meets inspiration, and science meets everyday life. Whether you’re managing genetic risk, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how genetics shape our health, this is your space to discover the power of awareness and prevention. Visit www.positivegenepodcast.com to read the podcast blog, explore resources, or book Sara for your next speaking engagement!

  1. 4d ago

    Living With BRCA2: Preventive Surgery and Life Beyond Cancer Risk with Raychel Kubby Adler

    The Positive Gene Podcast | Hereditary Breast Cancer Series What does life look like after learning you carry a hereditary cancer mutation? And how do you make decisions about your health when you've already witnessed the impact of cancer on the people you love? In this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, Sara Kavanaugh welcomes Raychel Kubby Adler, a BRCA2 previvor, author of Life in Asymmetry, and longtime hereditary cancer advocate who now works with FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. Raychel's story begins with her sister Lisa, who was 16 years older and one of the most influential people in her life. After witnessing both her mother and sister face breast cancer, Raychel learned she carried the same BRCA2 mutation as Lisa. That knowledge gave her choices previous generations of her family hadn't had. Raychel shares why she ultimately chose a preventive mastectomy, the emotional toll of ongoing surveillance, and the unexpected complications she experienced during reconstruction. Looking back nearly two decades later, she reflects on what she might have approached differently and why she remains grateful for the decisions she made. But this conversation reaches far beyond surgery. Raychel discusses how writing became a way to process grief, why she incorporated humor into her memoir, and how sharing family stories keeps the people she's lost present in her life. Now, as the mother of two adult daughters who are beginning to consider their own genetic testing decisions, Raychel finds herself looking toward the next generation and the possibilities that advances in hereditary cancer care may offer. Life in Asymmetry by Raychel Kubby Adler Email Raychel to request a signed copy: raychela@facingourrisk.org Connect with Raychel LinkedIn Instagram In this episode, we discuss: How Raychel's sister Lisa influenced her decision to pursue genetic testing What it was like to learn she carried a BRCA2 mutation nearly 20 years ago Why she chose preventive mastectomy rather than continuing high-risk breast surveillance The realities of reconstruction, surgical complications, and body image What she wishes she'd understood before making her surgical decisions How writing Life in Asymmetry helped her navigate grief and preserve her family's stories The emotional complexity of raising children who may inherit hereditary cancer risk How her relationship with FORCE evolved from seeking support to supporting others Why decisions about hereditary cancer risk continue throughout life A conversation about life beyond genetic risk One of the most meaningful themes in Raychel's story is that knowing your genetic risk doesn't mean knowing exactly how your life will unfold. The information can open doors to prevention and early detection, but it also introduces decisions that are deeply personal. For Raychel, those decisions have been shaped by family history, motherhood, grief, and the desire to be present for the people she loves. Her experience reminds us that there is no single path through hereditary cancer risk. What matters is having the information, resources, and support to make choices that fit your circumstances. About Raychel Kubby Adler Raychel is a BRCA2 previvor, author, and hereditary cancer advocate. After finding support through FORCE during her own genetic testing and preventive surgery journey, she became a volunteer and later joined the organization professionally. Her memoir, Life in Asymmetry, explores family, hereditary breast cancer, preventive surgery, and the unexpected ways humor and hope can coexist with loss. Resources mentioned FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered https://www.facingourrisk.org/ FORCE provides education, support, and resources for individuals and families affected by hereditary cancer risk. FORCE Post-Mastectomy Photo and Video Gallery Visit the FORCE website for information about accessing its password-protected gallery featuring different surgical and reconstruction outcomes, including aesthetic flat closure. About the Hereditary Breast Cancer Series This episode is part of The Positive Gene Podcast's hereditary breast cancer series, exploring genetic risk, screening, prevention, risk-reducing surgery, and the experiences of people navigating these decisions. Through conversations with medical experts, advocates, and individuals living with hereditary cancer risk, the series aims to make complex information more accessible and help listeners feel better equipped to make informed decisions. Listen to more episodes of The Positive Gene Podcast: https://www.positivegenepodcast.com/ This podcast is intended for education and awareness and does not replace personalized medical advice. Discuss genetic testing, screening, and risk-reducing options with qualified healthcare professionals.

  2. Oct 27

    Breast Cancer Surveillance: Knowing Your Risk and Your Options with Dr. Rachel Brem

    The Positive Gene Podcast | Hereditary Breast Cancer Series, Episode 2 Knowing you have an increased breast cancer risk brings important decisions. If you choose continued surveillance, what does “watching closely” actually look like? In the second episode of our 10-part hereditary breast cancer series, host Sara Kavanaugh welcomes Dr. Rachel Brem, a breast imaging radiologist, breast cancer survivor, BRCA1 carrier, and co-founder and chief medical officer of the Brem Foundation. Dr. Brem shares how her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis at age 33 shaped her career, and how she discovered her own breast cancer while testing ultrasound equipment shortly before a planned risk-reducing mastectomy. Together, Sara and Dr. Brem explore the considerations behind surveillance and risk-reducing surgery, how different imaging tools contribute to early detection, and why screening conversations should account for your individual risk. Drawing on her own experience living with a CHEK2 variant and extremely dense breasts, Sara shares the questions that come with choosing surveillance and revisiting decisions as research and personal circumstances evolve. In this episode, we discuss • How Dr. Brem’s experiences as a daughter, physician, and patient shaped her approach to breast care • The personal considerations behind surveillance and risk-reducing mastectomy • The roles of mammography, breast MRI, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced mammography • Automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) and its role in supplemental imaging • Why breast density matters and what to ask your healthcare team • Understanding screening callbacks, false positives, and biopsies • Why a negative BRCA result doesn’t necessarily mean average breast cancer risk • Financial and transportation barriers to breast care • Emerging applications of artificial intelligence in breast imaging • Speaking up when you have questions or concerns about your breast health About our guest Dr. Rachel Brem is a breast imaging radiologist, professor and vice chair of radiology, and director of breast imaging and intervention at George Washington University. A breast cancer survivor and BRCA1 carrier, she brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work in early detection and patient advocacy. She is co-founder and chief medical officer of the Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer and co-author, with breast surgeon Dr. Christy Teal, of No Longer Radical: Understanding Mastectomies and Choosing the Breast Cancer Care That’s Right for You. Connect with Dr. Brem and the Foundation: • Brem Foundation: https://www.bremfoundation.org/ • About Dr. Brem: https://www.bremfoundation.org/dr-brem Resources mentioned in this episode Breast health education and risk awareness • Brem Foundation: Education, resources, and information about breast cancer early detection. https://www.bremfoundation.org/ • CheckMate: The Brem Foundation’s breast health quiz, available through its website, can help you identify questions to discuss with your healthcare provider. Breast imaging technology • Automated breast ultrasound (ABUS): An imaging approach that captures a broad set of breast ultrasound images for a radiologist to review. It uses sound waves without ionizing radiation or injected contrast and may be used as supplemental screening for people with dense breasts. • BeSound: Dr. Brem discusses this company’s approach to expanding access to automated breast ultrasound. Visit its website for information about services and availability. https://www.besoundbreast.com/ Supplemental ultrasound does not replace recommended mammography or a personalized high-risk screening plan. Ask your healthcare team which imaging options are appropriate for you. Access to breast care • B-Fund and Wheels for Women: Learn about the Brem Foundation’s programs addressing financial barriers to diagnostic testing and transportation barriers to breast care. https://www.bremfoundation.org/accessforwomeninneed Reading and screening guidance • No Longer Radical, by Dr. Rachel Brem and Dr. Christy Teal: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/No-Longer-Radical/Rachel-Brem/9781668001134 • National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) patient resources: https://www.nccn.org/patientresources/patient-resources About this series This episode is part of a 10-part series exploring the medical and personal experiences of living with hereditary breast cancer risk. Through conversations with genetic counselors, physicians, advocates, previvors, and survivors, we explore risk assessment, high-risk screening, preventive surgery, decision-making, and the emotional realities of living with increased risk. Our goal is to help you better understand your options, ask informed questions, and work with your healthcare team to make decisions that are right for you. Start with Episode 1, Understanding Hereditary Breast Cancer Risk with Genetic Counselor, Dena Goldberg, and follow The Positive Gene Podcast so you don’t miss the next conversation. Medical disclaimer This podcast is intended for education and awareness only and does not provide individualized medical advice. Genetic risk, screening recommendations, and preventive options vary by individual. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional or genetic counselor about your personal and family history. Host: Sara Kavanaugh | The Positive Gene Podcast Website: https://www.sarakavanaugh.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivegenepodcast/

  3. Oct 16

    Understanding Hereditary Breast Cancer Risk with Genetic Counselor, Dena Goldberg

    The Positive Gene Podcast | Hereditary Breast Cancer Series, Episode 1 When we hear about hereditary breast cancer, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are often the first genes that come to mind. But hereditary breast cancer risk is much more complex, and understanding your genetic information can make a significant difference in how you approach your health. In the first episode of our 10-part hereditary breast cancer series, host Sara Kavanaugh welcomes Dena Goldberg, MS, CGC, a board-certified genetic counselor, science communicator and founder of Malibu Genetics Concierge, also known as Dena DNA. Dena brings years of experience in cancer genetics, patient education and advocacy to a conversation designed to make genetics more understandable for anyone navigating hereditary cancer risk. Together, Sara and Dena explore what makes cancer hereditary, why a family history of cancer doesn't always tell the whole story, and what genetic testing can and cannot tell us about our future health. They also discuss genes beyond BRCA, including CHEK2, ATM and PALB2, the importance of understanding variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and why genetic test results should be interpreted alongside personal and family history. Drawing on her own experience living with Lynch syndrome and a CHEK2 variant, Sara shares the questions and challenges that can arise even years after receiving a positive genetic test result. In this episode, we discuss The difference between hereditary, familial and sporadic cancer Why someone can carry a hereditary cancer mutation without an obvious family history How breast cancer risk differs across genes and even specific variants Who should consider genetic testing and how to access genetic counseling Understanding positive, negative and uncertain genetic test results The difference between inherited (germline) and tumor (somatic) genetic testing Sharing genetic information with family members and cascade testing Building a healthcare team, finding reliable resources and making informed decisions over time About our guest Dena Goldberg, MS, CGC, is a board-certified genetic counselor and science communicator who makes genetics approachable through education, social media and her work with patient communities. Known online as Dena DNA, she creates educational videos, explainers and resources to help people better understand genetic testing and inherited health conditions. Connect with Dena: Instagram: @dena.dna TikTok: @denadna YouTube: @DenaDNA Website / genetic counseling information: https://www.denadna.com/ Resources mentioned in this episode Genetic testing and counseling JScreen: https://www.jscreen.org/ JScreen Promo Code: Use code DENADNA to get $10 off your testing kit. Genetic information and variant updates ICARE Registry: https://inheritedcancer.net PROMPT Registry: https://promptstudy.info/ (https://www.genomeconnect.org/) My Gene Counsel / Living Lab Report: [https://www.mygenecounsel.com/ ConnectMyVariant: https://connectmyvariant.org/ Citizen Genetics: https://www.citizengenetics.co/ National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN): https://www.nccn.org/patientresources/patient-resources Community support FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered): https://www.facingourrisk.org The Breasties: https://thebreasties.org/ We Got This, cancer gift registry: https://wegotthis.org/ A little something extra: the DNA headband! If you're watching the video version, you may notice Sara wearing a genetics-inspired headband from Lilac Market Headbands. After seeing Dena share the brand on Instagram, Sara ordered the DNA-print design, which arrived just in time for their recording! Check out Lilac Market Headbands and use code DenaDNA for a discount.  Click HERE to order. This is a product mention inspired by Dena's social media post. No paid sponsorship of this episode is indicated. About this series This episode launches a 10-part series exploring the medical and personal experiences of living with hereditary breast cancer risk. Through conversations with genetic counselors, physicians, advocates, previvors and survivors, we'll explore risk assessment, high-risk screening, preventive surgery, decision-making and the emotional realities of living with increased risk. Our goal is to help you better understand your options, ask informed questions and work with your healthcare team to make decisions that are right for you. Follow The Positive Gene Podcast so you don't miss the next conversation. Medical disclaimer This podcast is intended for education and awareness only and does not provide individualized medical advice. Genetic risk, screening recommendations and preventive options vary by individual. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional or genetic counselor about your personal and family history. Host: Sara Kavanaugh | The Positive Gene Podcast Website: https://www.sarakavanaugh.com Instagram: @positivegenepodcast

  4. Jul 5

    Your Voice Matters: How Patient Advocates Shape Healthcare Policy with TN Representative Bob Freeman

    Your Voice Matters: How Patient Advocates Shape Healthcare Policy As patient advocates, we have the opportunity to help shape healthcare policy by sharing our lived experiences with the people making decisions that affect our lives. In this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, host Sara Kavanaugh sits down with Tennessee State Representative Bob Freeman for a candid conversation about how legislation really works, why patient stories matter, and how advocates can help influence meaningful change. Sara first met Representative Freeman during Susan G. Komen Advocacy Day at the Tennessee Capitol. Walking into those legislative meetings initially felt intimidating, but she quickly realized something that changed her perspective forever: legislators don't just need data. They need to understand how policies affect real people. Together they discuss: Why patient and caregiver stories carry so much weight with legislators How healthcare legislation actually moves through the process Why advocacy organizations are so important What makes an advocacy meeting memorable How research, insurance, and access to care intersect with public policy The role each of us can play in improving healthcare, regardless of political affiliation One of the most powerful reminders from this conversation is that medical professionals are experts in the science. Legislators are experts in the policymaking process. Patients and caregivers are the experts in living with the consequences of those decisions. Every one of those perspectives belongs at the table. Whether you've participated in an Advocacy Day before or have wondered if your story could ever make a difference, this episode will leave you feeling informed, encouraged, and empowered to use your voice. If this episode resonates with you, consider joining an advocacy organization such as FORCE, Susan G. Komen, Fight Colorectal Cancer, or another organization aligned with your cause. Advocacy is often easier - and more impactful - when we work together. Because meaningful change doesn't happen by accident. It happens when people show up. Resources Mentioned Advocacy Organizations FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered): https://www.facingourrisk.org Susan G. Komen: https://www.komen.org Fight Colorectal Cancer: https://fightcolorectalcancer.org Lynch Syndrome Awareness & Education: https://lynchsyndromeawareness.com/ Learn More Representative Bob Freeman - TN General Assembly Site https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/LegislatorInfo/Member?district=H56&ga=114 Find your Tennessee legislators: https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/fml/search Find your U.S. elected officials: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials Connect with Sara Kavanaugh 🌐 Website: https://www.sarakavanaugh.com 🎙️ The Positive Gene Podcast: https://thepositivegenepodcast.podbean.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivegenepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarakavanaughspeaks/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sarakavanaughspeaks Enjoying the Podcast? If this episode encouraged or inspired you, please consider: ⭐ Following or subscribing to The Positive Gene Podcast ⭐ Leaving a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform ⭐ Sharing this episode with a friend, caregiver, healthcare professional, or fellow advocate Your support helps us reach more individuals and families navigating hereditary cancer risk. Remember: Knowledge is power. Prevention is possible. And your voice has the power to create meaningful change.

  5. May 21

    Walking the Genetic Line: Emotional Truths of Hereditary Cancer Risk with Sara Champie

    Episode Summary In this episode of The Positive Gene Podcast, Sara Kavanaugh sits down with therapist, BRCA1 previvor, and podcast host Sara Champie for a deeply honest conversation about the emotional realities of hereditary cancer risk. Together, they explore the layers of fear, grief, agency, trauma, identity, and healing that can emerge after genetic testing and prevention decisions. Sara Champie shares her personal journey after learning she carried a BRCA1 mutation following the loss of her mother to ovarian cancer, and how that experience ultimately shaped her work as a psychotherapist specializing in hereditary cancer and genetic risk. The conversation dives into trauma-informed care, the emotional weight of prevention decisions, the complexity of “being strong,” and why connection and storytelling matter so much in this community. They also discuss Sara’s podcast, Walking the Genetic Line, which creates space for the deeply human side of genetic testing and hereditary cancer risk. In This Episode Sara Champie’s BRCA1 story and the loss of her mother to ovarian cancer Why hereditary cancer risk is not a “linear” emotional journey The connection between trauma, grief, anxiety, and prevention decisions How “strength” can sometimes become emotional avoidance Why agency and timing matter in risk-reducing decisions Trauma-informed perspectives on genetic counseling and medical care The emotional and somatic impacts of hereditary cancer risk The importance of connection, community, and witnessing grief The inspiration behind Walking the Genetic Line podcast Resources Mentioned Walking the Genetic Line Podcast Sara Champie, LCSW: Website: www.sarachampielcsw.com Instagram: @sarachampielcsw Connect with The Positive Gene Podcast Follow The Positive Gene Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Follow along on Instagram @positivegenepodcast for episodes, advocacy, education, and hereditary cancer conversations. Disclaimer:  This podcast episode is intended for educational and storytelling purposes only and should not be considered medical or mental health advice. Please consult your healthcare provider or licensed mental health professional for individualized support.

  6. Apr 1

    The Story That Changed Everything: Diane Hardesty on Lynch Syndrome, Family History, and Prevention

    As we close out Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, this episode marks the final installment in our series on Lynch syndrome and hereditary cancer risk. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to go back and listen to the earlier episodes—each one offers a powerful and important perspective on what it means to understand and navigate inherited cancer risk. **** Episode Overview Diane Hardesty’s story is one that clearly shows what can change when awareness meets action. Before genetic testing, Diane’s family experienced ten cancer-related deaths connected to Lynch syndrome. Cancer wasn’t a possibility, it felt inevitable. But once Diane chose to pursue genetic testing, everything shifted. Through testing, proactive screening, and open family communication, her family has now experienced zero cancer-related deaths. In this conversation, Diane shares her personal journey, the emotional weight of growing up with cancer as an expectation, and how one decision changed the trajectory for future generations. This episode is a reminder that understanding your risk doesn’t create fear—it creates options. Key Takeaways Family history matters more than many realize Patterns across generations can hold critical information about inherited cancer risk. Genetic testing can change outcomes Knowledge allows for earlier screening, prevention strategies, and informed decision-making. You are not only making decisions for yourself Testing and sharing information can directly impact children, siblings, and extended family. Prevention and early detection are powerful Diane’s family story shows what is possible when risk is understood and acted on. Conversations save lives Talking openly about cancer history within families is one of the most important steps people can take. Topics We Cover Growing up in a family where cancer felt inevitable The moment Diane first learned about Lynch syndrome Deciding to pursue genetic testing What changed after her family began testing The emotional experience of learning her son did not inherit the mutation Advocacy, awareness, and speaking on a national stage Why sharing family health history is critical How awareness continues to evolve—and where gaps still exist Resources AliveandKick’n (Lynch Syndrome advocacy and support) https://aliveandkickn.org FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) https://www.facingourrisk.org Jacqueline Rush Foundation - Lynch Syndrome Advocacy and Education https://www.jrushfoundation.org Lynch Syndrome Awareness & Education https://www.lynchsyndromeawareness.com National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) – Find a genetic counselor https://www.nsgc.org NCCN Guidelines for Patients (Evidence-based screening guidance) https://www.nccn.org/patients My Faulty Gene (Advocacy + conference presence Diane supports) https://www.myfaultygene.org Final Thought Diane’s story is a powerful example of how knowledge can change a family’s future. If cancer runs in your family, or if those conversations have never happened, this episode is a place to start.   🎧 The Positive Gene Podcast - https://thepositivegenepodcast.podbean.com/   IMPORTANT: This episode is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team for personal guidance.

  7. Mar 30

    For Jacqueline: Joan Rush on Love, Loss, and Changing the Future of Lynch Syndrome

    Lynch Syndrome Series This episode is part of a five-part series on living with Lynch syndrome, focused on raising awareness and sharing perspectives from patients, advocates, and organizations working to improve outcomes in hereditary cancer. Episode Overview In this episode, Sara Kavanaugh speaks with Joan Rush, co-founder of the Jacqueline Rush Foundation, an organization dedicated to raising awareness of Lynch syndrome among both patients and the medical community. Joan shares the story of her daughter Jacqueline, who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at just 20 years old after years of symptoms that were dismissed. During treatment, Jacqueline and her family learned the underlying cause was Lynch syndrome. Although Jacqueline passed away at 23, her story continues to shape awareness, research, and advocacy in meaningful ways. This conversation highlights: the importance of recognizing symptoms earlier, even in young patients the need for greater physician awareness of Lynch syndrome how research and treatment have evolved significantly since Jacqueline’s diagnosis and why knowledge of genetic risk can change outcomes As Joan shares, “Knowing you have Lynch syndrome changes everything. It gives you the opportunity to change your genetic destiny instead of leaving it up to fate.” Key Takeaways Awareness can change outcomes. Earlier recognition of symptoms and genetic risk can alter the course of care. Lynch syndrome is often underrecognized. Gaps still exist in both public and physician awareness. Genetic knowledge creates opportunity. Screening, prevention, and early detection save lives. Research is advancing rapidly. Immunotherapy and prevention-focused trials are changing what’s possible. Advocacy plays a critical role. Bridging the gap between patients and providers remains essential. Resources & Links Jacqueline Rush Foundation 🌐 https://jrushfoundation.org Media & Awareness Today Show segment on Lynch syndrome Katie Couric feature on Jacqueline’s story Lynch Syndrome Conferences (Patient-Focused) Penn Medicine Lynch Syndrome Conference (virtual + recordings available) Dana-Farber Lynch Syndrome Conference (virtual + recordings available) University of Colorado Cancer Center (biennial conference) 👉 Many sessions offer recordings/replays—check institutional sites for access. Additional Resource Previvor Perspectives Discussion - Living with Lynch Syndrome Risk  Why This Episode Matters Jacqueline’s story reflects a time when awareness and options were limited. Today, the landscape is different. There are better tools, more research, and more opportunities to prevent or detect cancer early. This episode is not only about loss. It’s about what is now possible. Listen & Share If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with: a family member a young adult experiencing symptoms or a healthcare provider 🎧 The Positive Gene Podcast - https://thepositivegenepodcast.podbean.com/

  8. Mar 22

    Why Family History Matters: Jennifer Mercer on Lynch Syndrome, Awareness, and Family Communication

    Lynch Syndrome Series - This episode is part of a five-part series on living with Lynch syndrome, released in recognition of Lynch Syndrome Awareness Day on March 22. Episode Overview In this episode, Sara Kavanaugh speaks with Jennifer Mercer, founder of Lynch Syndrome Awareness and Education, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing awareness and helping families better understand hereditary cancer risk. Key Takeaways Family history matters more than most people realize. Even partial information can help guide testing and screening decisions. You have to start the conversation. Talking about cancer risk may feel uncomfortable, but it can save lives. Genetic testing provides clarity and direction. As Jennifer describes, it can serve as both a “flashlight and a map.” Lynch syndrome is not rare. Many individuals and families may be affected without realizing it. Community and connection reduce isolation. Advocacy organizations play a critical role in helping people feel supported. Jennifer’s advocacy began with her own family’s experience. After reconnecting with her biological father, she witnessed him endure multiple primary cancers over decades before genetic testing finally revealed Lynch syndrome. Following his diagnosis and passing, Jennifer made the decision to pursue testing herself and tested positive for an MSH2 mutation. What followed was not only a personal turning point, but the beginning of a broader mission to help other families avoid the same uncertainty. This conversation focuses on: how awareness can change outcomes across generations why family communication is critical in hereditary cancer and how community and accessible information can support individuals navigating Lynch syndrome Resources & Links Lynch Syndrome Awareness and Education Website: https://lynchsyndromeawareness.com Instagram: @lynchsyndromeawareness Facebook: Lynch Syndrome Awareness and Education LinkedIn: Lynch Syndrome Awareness Educational tools, family letters, and resources for newly diagnosed individuals Community support and upcoming expert webinars Upcoming Webinar: March 30 Register via their website or social media Why This Episode Matters This episode is a reminder that hereditary cancer risk does not exist in isolation. It lives within families. Understanding your history, asking questions, and sharing information can change not only your path, but the path of future generations. Listen & Share If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with someone who may benefit—from patients and families to healthcare providers and advocates. 🎧 The Positive Gene Podcast Connect with Jennifer Follow Jennifer on LinkedIn Connect with The Positive Gene Podcast www.positivegenepodcast.com Instagram: @positivegenepodcast IMPORTANT: This episode is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team for personal guidance.

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About

Welcome to The Positive Gene Podcast, where we empower those navigating hereditary cancer risks with hope and optimism. Hosted by Sara Kavanaugh, a hereditary cancer previvor living with Lynch Syndrome (MSH6) and CHEK2 genetic mutations, this show offers a unique perspective on proactive well-being. Drawing on her own experiences and work as an advocate for FORCE, Sara bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and the realities of life as a previvor. Through engaging discussions with experts, advocates, and fellow previvors and survivors, Sara simplifies the complexities of hereditary risk and provides insights that empower listeners to face challenges with confidence. With a background as a communications expert and storyteller, she creates a space where education meets inspiration, and science meets everyday life. Whether you’re managing genetic risk, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how genetics shape our health, this is your space to discover the power of awareness and prevention. Visit www.positivegenepodcast.com to read the podcast blog, explore resources, or book Sara for your next speaking engagement!

Information

  • Creator
    Sara Kavanaugh
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Positive Gene Podcast

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