Previvor

""The four words that repeated in my head while reading Erica's incredible journey to embrace life were: Raw, encouraging, inspiring and resilience. A well written memoir that almost reads like a novel but is palpably real. The end the Step by Step guide and everything following that will be invaluable. This memoir will save many, from the difficulties of the who, what, when, where and why of the uncertainty of this disease. I would highly recommend this book.I would also recommend this for any therapist who works with this population."" ""I just finished reading Erica's book, Previvor, and it was a page turner-almost an all nighter for me! Erica takes us along on her journey as she deals with her BCRA diagnosis, the desire to become a mother and the many relationships in her life. She shares her inner most feelings with such honesty and purpose. We learn about the complications she encounters, the unexpected, the highs, the lows and everything in between.Erica is a beautiful storyteller. Her words flow on and on like a river yet she seems to be going against the current so much of the time. Although this book is a wonderful resource for others in a similar situation, it is also a reminder to follow your instincts and your heart. Thank you, Erica. I hope you write another book!"" ""It takes a lot for me to get hooked on a book but I could not put Erica's book down! As a wife, mother of 3, teacher and PLAB and BRIP gene carrier I was able to connect to her writing so much. It made me feel at ease about my upcoming surgery and gave me insight that no doctor would be able to do. I would highly recommend this book to anyone (with or without a gene mutation). I have never met Erica but feel like I know her just from reading about her life experiences. She is an excellent writer and I hope she comes out with another book!"" ""An inspiring tale of a very strong, resilient woman determined not to allow the Damocles like sword of BRCA mutation derail the dreams she has to be a mother, educator, wife and human who enjoys the beauty of the world around her. Erica's writing grabs you and holds you close as you are taking on a harrowing journey by her side as she goes from diagnosis through multiple rounds of surgeries. This story is courageously honest about Erica's struggle with post partum, the fears she struggled with regarding her fragile mortality, and what the future may hold for her children or other BRCA mutation previvors. This book is as educational as it is heartwarming and should serve as a foundational resource for anyone going through a similar life threatening health scare or for anyone looking to be a supportive caregiver of one. This book takes you on a journey to the top of the mountain where you stand with Erica to shout that vulnerability and genetic fate would not define you but only be a part. It also teaches the invaluable lesson of asking for help, marshaling resources and researching what the landscape of one's journey is truly like. Most importantly it teaches that one is never alone in one's struggles and sometimes the pat of a wet nose or scruffy ear is the strongest medicine there is.""