Welcome to The Proactive Patients
Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and resources you need to take control of your preventative cancer journey. We understand that navigating the world of healthcare can be overwhelming, but we're here to explain the options and provide resources so that you can be more proactive in your journey.
Discover a wealth of information, links, and organizations dedicated to providing support and guidance. From learning about different screening options to understanding what is involved in various preventative measures, we have you covered.
Don't hesitate to explore our ever-expanding collection of resources. We believe that everyone deserves to be a proactive patient, informed and engaged as an active participant in their own healthcare decisions.
*Of note, this is for informational purposes only and is not healthcare advise. This information does not in any way make us your healthcare provider. Any and all information should be discussed with your provider to determine the right course of action for your specific circumstance and diagnosis.
Meet the Authors
Cyndy Murray, MS, CGC
Founder/Author/Licensed and Certified Genetic Counselor
Hi, I'm Cyndy – a board-certified genetic counselor with nearly two decades of experience. For over 9 years, I've specialized in oncology genetic counseling, partnering with medical professionals to identify patients at risk for cancer.
My Journey:
High School
I was very fortunate in high school to have the opportunity to work as an intern at the Human Genome Project, when they were on the brink of discovering the first breast cancer gene, BRCA1. The media was in and out of the lab, interviewing the lab director (Dr. Francis Collins). It was an exciting time! It hit home, especially because my grandmother had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. At 16, I knew I wanted to do something in cancer genetics, although at the time I thought it might be in research.
College
Off to college at Kalamazoo, known for its strong science program. I studied Biology, went abroad to the Netherlands, and worked in another genetics lab for my senior thesis project. But with this experience, I realized that I did not enjoy working in labs. My mentor for my thesis referred me to Diane Baker, who was then the program director for the University of Michigan Genetic Counseling Program. She took two hours out of her day to sit with me that summer and discuss the field of genetic counseling. I am eternally grateful for her mentorship, as she set the stage for my future. BRCA1 and BRCA2 had been discovered by this time and a world of options for carriers was just beginning to open up.
Graduate School and First Jobs
I earned my Master of Science in Human Genetics at Sarah Lawrence College and started my career as a prenatal genetic counselor. It wasn't exactly what I expected, but it was a good experience. After growing two prenatal programs, I finally got the chance to shift to oncology genetics in 2014!
Oncology Genetics
I finally landed my dream job! I now help patients with a personal or family history of cancer. I identify those who have an increased risk and suggest appropriate screening and risk-reducing options. I see most of my patients at least once or twice if they do testing (to review their results). I make recommendations and forward those recommendations to their providers. But, in doing so, I noticed some problems along the way.
The Problem…
Not all high-risk patients are getting the care they need! Insurance hassles, wrong orders, and outdated info! I rarely see a patient after initial testing, but when I do – it is infuriating. Most have not received the care that they deserved or received any updated information! This frustration prompted me to brainstorm new ways to share and keep this crucial information updated while also reaching a broader audience. This is how 'The Proactive Patients' came to life.
Goal of The Proactive Patients
My website, YouTube channel, and newsletter aim to empower those at risk for cancer. Providing easy tools, tips, and the latest info, I want you to be in control of your health journey.