Kate Payne had a family history of cancer, so the News and Observer writes that when she turned 30, she sought genetic testing.
Testing, it reports, found that Payne harbored a mutation in the ATM gene, which led her to have a mammogram and then 3D imaging. And that imaging found something, it adds. Payne underwent a lumpectomy and another surgery, even as her wedding day loomed, the News and Observer adds. But as she still was not free of cancer, Payne opted for a double mastectomy, just days after getting married.
Though she credits testing with leading her to discover her cancer early, Payne tells the paper that not every woman needs testing, a sentiment James Evans from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill echoes. He notes that factors like family history influence whether it might be right for someone.
Payne also says that it helped her put her wedding in perspective. "Suddenly," she tell the News and Observer, "I didn't really care if my flowers were perfect or if my dress was perfect or if I have to get a spray-tan. I was marrying my best friend."