EP-90 | Margaret Smith | Army Officer | Running For Her Life

Published: April 24, 2017, 4:17 p.m.

b'Imagine finding that you are genetically predisposed for the genetic mutation BRCA2. According to the National Cancer Institute, BRCA2 (Breast Cancer 2, Early Onset) is "a gene on chromosome 13 that normally helps to suppress cell growth. These proteins help repair damaged DNA and, therefore, play a role in ensuring the stability of the cell\'s genetic material. When either of these genes is mutated, or altered, such that its protein product either is not made or does not function correctly, DNA damage may not be repaired properly. As a result, cells are more likely to develop additional genetic alterations that can lead to cancer." When Maggie discovered she carried the BRCA2 gene, she took immediate action and began the run for her life. Hear how she reacted when faced with this life-threatening medical issue and how her husband helped her recover and find her new passion. She was quoted in the Army Times as saying "I want women to get tested\\u2026I want them to know there are others out there experiencing the same thing, others who have been through it," Smith said. "Men are carriers too -- get tested."\\n\\nFollow Mentors for Military:\\niTunes: http://apple.co/1WaEvbB\\nSoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/mentors4mil\\nInstagram: www.instagram.com/mentors4mil\\nTwitter: www.twitter.com/mentors4mil\\nFacebook: www.facebook.com/mentors4mil\\nHomepage: www.mentorsformilitary.com'