The Impact of Prophylactic Mastectomy: A Survivor’s Honest Perspective

Alice Ann Dodge met breast cancer head-on—caring for family, making tough choices, and giving back as a veterinarian and board member at The Rose.

During this episode, you’ll hear Alice Ann’s story of:

• Growing up surrounded by breast cancer
• Choosing a preventive bilateral mastectomy in her twenties
• Turning support for others into her mission

Key Questions Answered

1. What is the current gender breakdown in the veterinary profession, and why has it shifted?

2. What type of veterinary practice does Alice Ann Dodge specialize in?

3. How did breast cancer affect Alice Ann’s family?

4. How young was Alice Ann’s sister when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and how did that influence Alice Ann’s choices?

5. What led Alice Ann to choose a bilateral mastectomy, and how did it change her life?

6. What were the attitudes and medical recommendations about genetic testing and preventative surgery 20 years ago?

7. What barriers and support systems did Alice Ann and her sister encounter during their breast cancer experiences?

8. How did Alice Ann’s experiences with breast cancer inform her work on The Rose’s board?

9. Does Alice Ann counsel young women regarding breast cancer risk?

10. What are Alice Ann’s thoughts on loss and grief, both as a veterinarian and in her personal life?

11. How does Alice Ann approach end-of-life care for animals and their humans?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Rethinking Career Paths

05:39 Sister's Cancer Diagnosis Impact

07:10 "Younger Cancer Patients: No Progress"

11:54 "Reflecting on Mystical Sisterhood"

13:59 "Peace After Surgery Fears"

17:26 Greatest Achievement: Life-Changing Surgery

22:19 "The Rose's Local Impact"

27:12 Life as a Veterinarian

29:33 Veterinary Heartbreaks and Challenges

Support The Rose HERE.

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