My name is Brianna Roby. I am the mother of an incredibly active and hungry eleven-year-old boy and the craziest, most adorable 2-year-old girl. I’m a wife, a daughter, a wannabe writer, an exercise-enthusiast, a health-nut and a food-lover. Over the past ten years, I have been on a journey to become more healthy and learn to be happy with myself and my body. My journey began when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Since my aunt (her sister) had died of breast cancer about 15 years prior, we knew there was a family link. My mom was tested for the genetic mutations, BRCA1 and BRCA2, and discovered she was BRCA2 positive. Because of this, my sister and I both had a 50% chance of having the gene as well. Since my sister was only 11 at the time, it was too early for her to be tested because there would be nothing she could really do yet anyway, but I was 25, the prime age to start proactively battling cancer. So I was tested for the BRCA2 gene (since we knew that was the one my mom had). I tested positive as well.
In some ways this came as a relief, to know that I would be able to start taking measures to prevent myself from getting breast cancer and to start fighting. In many ways it was very daunting, very scary. I decided to pledge to myself and my family that I would start living a healthier lifestyle. So, I joined a medical research study, the Wiser Sister Study, which studies the link between aerobic exercise and hormone rates in women at high risk of breast cancer. This drove me to start running, and I have finished numerous 5K’s, 10K’s, 2 half marathons, and a Rugged Maniac. I hope to eventually have the time to train and complete a full marathon as well.
While completing a health journey, I’ve discovered that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to, with lots of hard work. Since I was in high school, I dreamed of being an accomplished writer. So, I have set my mind to writing my first book. This blog used to be about my healthy journey, but it will now be my life journey. I am determined to find my balance and pass that on to others.
The Morning Bell 
Not sure how I found myself here but I hear your story and admire that you took positive and strong action to take control of your wellbeing, especially having the wisdom and courage to leave a job that was not good for you. And I say that as someone who has a similar story and who is also getting fitter and more healthy, though I wish I had been more knowledgeable and as disciplined as you have been.
Good for you and good luck on your path ahead.
Thank you so much, Graham! I’m learning more and more everyday. I’ve had quite a lot of setbacks, but the most important part is that we just keep going and keep our eyes on our goals, right? Good luck on your journey. 🙂