CHARLOTTE AND ROSE

TWINS Charlotte and Rose Turpie lost their parents to cancer and had double mastectomies when they discovered they were carrying a timebomb gene. BRCA2 increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers and the sisters, 29, decided to take no chances. Veterinary nurse Charlotte, from Belper, Derbys, said: “We were just three when our mum, Sally, was told she had breast cancer. She lived another seven years but died when she was 39. “We were only 10. But the longer I live without her, the harder certain times are. She won’t be there for my wedding, nor birthdays. But out of something so difficult came something positive. We’ve wondered why she had breast cancer at such a young age. But a year before her death experts discovered the BRCA2 gene mutation and they could identify what took her so young. Doctors told us we should get tested and we both came back as being positive.”

Sales co-ordinator Rose, who lives in the Peak District village of Chinley, said: “That’s when we decided to have our breasts removed, in 2016. We had initial surgery days apart. Charlotte was at the Derby Royal and I was at Wythenshawe Hospital.

“I had breast tissue removed and implants straight away. Charlotte had a mastectomy and had implants a year later.

“We both really struggled afterwards with body confidence.

HELL

“But then our dad, Paul, died. He was diagnosed with lung cancer and was gone less than two weeks after our surgeries.

“It was hell. I can’t describe how dark a place it was to be in.

“That is why we are trying to change our futures. I’m proud to show my scars. They give people hope. They don’t define you.

“I’m now more body confident than ever. I spend a lot of time in the gym as it’s a great way to stay positive and helps me feel more confident about the way I look.

“One of the best moments was standing side-by-side with my sister when we went to a charity ball in November 2017. I felt lovely in a ball gown and it was special to be able to share that with her.”

Charlotte added: “That was the first time I’d worn a revealing dress. Rose dressed me and the criss-cross design across my boobs was something I’d never have worn before my surgery.

“But I felt empowered and took confidence from being with my sister. It was wonderful to be able to share that after everything.”

I am proud to show my scars as they give people hope. They needn’t define you... rose turpie WHO OPTED FOR BREAST OP WITH HER TWIN SIS