When Deanna Caballero was diagnosed with breast cancer, she immediately thought of her 18-year-old daughter. With no known family history, she worried how her daughter might be impacted.

All patients at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center are eligible to take advantage of genetic counseling and cancer risk assessment at no charge, thanks to an ongoing grant provided by the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara. This proved immensely helpful to Deanna and her family.

“The best part was speaking to Ayanna Boyce, a licensed genetic counselor, who took copious notes, considered all family members, and explained potential outcomes,” said Deanna. “She was so kind, following up, understanding how overwhelmed, nervous and scared I was.”

The genetic counseling provided Deanna with information that clarified future screenings for both her and her daughter. She was also placed into a research database, calling it a “win-win.”

“It’s a breath of fresh air to know that there’s comprehensive, compassionate care right here in Santa Barbara when confronted with something that turns your world upside down.”

“It’s a breath of fresh air to know that there’s comprehensive, compassionate care right here in Santa Barbara when confronted with something that turns your world upside down.”