Life-changing choice

Anna and Coll Metcalfe share a tender moment just before she heads into pre-op at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for the surgery intended to minimize her risk of contracting cancer.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Anna Gorman nervously awaits surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Dr. Beth Karlan consults with Anna Gorman in advance of her surgery to remove her uterus, ovaries and Fallopian tubes. Referring to the cancer that took Ira Gorman’s life and might threaten his daughter, Karlan said, “Your dad is with us, from above.”  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Anna Gorman hugs Dr. Karlan in the pre-op area at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. “I am so happy we’re here,” Karlan said. “It’s been a long journey.”  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Anna Gorman is wheeled into the operating room to have her ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes removed.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Coll greets a still groggy but overwhelming relieved Anna after surgery.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Under the doting eye of her husband, Anna is home from the hospital two days after surgery and happily cuddling daughters Sadie, left and Twyla, 3 months.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Anna Gorman, still wearing her hospital-issued bracelet on her first day home following surgery, shares a playful moment with Sadie.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)

Nearly two weeks after Anna Gorman’s surgery, Dr. Karlan gives the patient a clean bill of health. The lab results showed no sign of cancer.  (Anne Cusack / LAT)