Guests Mike Birbiglia, Carmen Rita Wong, and Beth Bucher share stories about navigating health issues, family secrets, and tough decisions due to genetics. From comedic journeys to emotional revelations, these tales highlight the complexities of inherited traits and the impact they have on our lives.
Dr. Nurse uncovers a family secret through a birth certificate, revealing his sister as his biological mother.
Beth opts for a prophylactic mastectomy inspired by family history and genetic testing for the breast cancer gene.
Deep dives
Mystery of Exotic Genes Unveiled by Genetic Testing
A geneticist, Dr. Nurse, reflects on his unique family history and genetics. Raised in a blue-collar household, he pondered his academic success compared to his siblings. After applying for a green card, a revelation from a birth certificate led him to discover his illegitimate birth. His sister was his biological mother who kept the secret for over half a century.
Prophylactic Mastectomy Decision
Beth, a daughter of a cancer victim, shares her genetic testing journey for the breast cancer gene. Ann, a source of quiet strength, reveals family secrets to Beth during a family tree project. Empowered by the revelation and inspired by her mother's courage in battling cancer, Beth chooses to have a prophylactic mastectomy, finding solace in the memories of her deceased family members.
Unexpected Genetic Revelations from Birth Certificate
A twist of fate unfolds for a geneticist as he delves into his family history. After being rejected for a green card due to documentation issues, Dr. Nurse discovers through a birth certificate that his sister was his biological mother. The revelation unravels a hidden chapter of secrecy, challenging his understanding of his genetic origins.
Tragedy and Secrecy in Family History
Dr. Nurse unveils a tragic family secret shedding light on his surprising genetic background. A photograph and an incident with a wedding cake hint at his mother's struggle with the secret birth. The legacy of secrecy surrounding the circumstances of his birth highlights the complexity of familial relationships and genetic identity.
In this hour, stories from the double helix -- genetic makeup, inherited disease, and family secrets. It's all in the DNA. This hour is hosted by Moth Artistic Director Catherine Burns. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.
Storytellers:
Mike Birbiglia works to get healthy and mitigate his bad genes.
Carmen Rita Wong uncovers the complicated layers of her family's past.
Beth Bucher makes a hard decision to protect her health.
When applying for a green card, Paul Nurse discovers a family secret.