January 22, 2013.  Seems so far away, but I know it’ll be here before I know it.  That’s the day I’m having a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy (PBM) and start the breast reconstruction process.  A PBM is an elective, preventative procedure which surgically removes breast tissue (see more details under WHAT IS A PBM?).  You’re doing what with WHAT?  Ya, I am doing it.  I have thought long and hard about what this really means.  I have discussed this with family, friends, and doctors.  I have done hours of research, almost ad nauseam.  After considering all of the factors, the risks, the benefits, the uncertainties, the consequences, I know this is the right decision for me.