Nebraska Nurse Finds BRCA2 Mutation Through Free Genetic Test

Early detection allows Erin Thoman to take proactive steps to reduce her cancer risk.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Erin Thoman, a 34-year-old Nebraska nurse practitioner, discovered she carries a BRCA2 gene mutation after participating in a free genetic research study. The discovery, prompted by her sister's enrollment, has allowed Thoman to take preventative measures, including plans for a double mastectomy, to significantly reduce her breast cancer risk.

Why it matters

The Genetic Insights Project aims to screen up to 100,000 people in Nebraska and 3 million nationwide to identify genetic predispositions to diseases like cancer. Early detection of high-risk mutations empowers individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health, highlighting the growing role of genetic screening in preventative healthcare.

The details

Thoman's sister initially enrolled in the Genetic Insights Project, a study at Nebraska Medicine, and was found to carry the BRCA2 mutation. Thoman and her mother were then also tested through the study and both were discovered to have the same genetic mutation, despite limited family history of cancer. Thoman has now consulted with doctors and scheduled appointments to remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes, as well as undergo a double mastectomy, which is expected to reduce her breast cancer risk from 60% to less than 10%.

  • Thoman's sister enrolled in the Genetic Insights Project.
  • Thoman and her mother were also tested through the study.

The players

Erin Thoman

A 34-year-old Nebraska nurse practitioner and mother of four who discovered she carries a BRCA2 gene mutation through a free genetic research study.

Genetic Insights Project

A research study at Nebraska Medicine that aims to screen up to 100,000 people in Nebraska and 3 million nationwide to identify genetic predispositions to diseases like cancer.

Dr. Doug Stoller

A cardiologist involved in the Genetic Insights Project who emphasized the importance of early detection of genetic mutations to prevent the possibility of cancer.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to not have that stress of wondering, is today the day I find out I have cancer?”

— Erin Thoman

“The goal here is to detect as early as possible and prevent even the possibility that cancer could ever start.”

— Dr. Doug Stoller, Cardiologist

What’s next

Thoman has scheduled appointments with a surgeon to discuss the removal of her ovaries and fallopian tubes, as well as a double mastectomy to significantly reduce her breast cancer risk.

The takeaway

The Genetic Insights Project highlights the growing role of genetic screening in preventative healthcare, empowering individuals like Thoman to take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being.