This past week I received the results of my 23andMe genetic testing kit. My kit tested my ancestry and how my DNA can affect my chances of developing certain health conditions. I wasn’t anticipating any surprises but watched my inbox expectantly secretly hoping for some. I REALLY find these types of things fascinating-just ask any Sister who sat with me at dinner this week! The email came: “Your reports are ready.”
The genetics report predicts:
- 74% chance detached earlobes—correct.
- 52% chance of blue eyes—correct.
- More likely to be bitten by mosquitoes—VERY correct!
- There were more fun things like this but then I got into the ancestry.
65.1% Irish. No surprise there. The rest was a mixture of German, French, Scandinavian, and .3% Southern European. The surprise came from the .1% that was “broadly Central Asian, Northern Indian, and Pakistani.” My world just grew larger. I wonder what part of me is from them?
This test also connects you with anyone else with shared DNA who has taken this test. I, of course, matched with my father, but I also have 1270 other cousins. Most of the cousins are here in the United States but some matched as far away as Helsinki, Munich, and Madrid. I decided to contact a second cousin—the first female on the list. Her name is Laurie. She lives in Iowa and is around my age. She replied to my email almost immediately with a promise of more information when she returns home from the Mayo Clinic. She is being treated for multiple myeloma. That dampened the excitement. But it did cause me to think about our connection. I shared with her that I am approaching my one year checkup for breast cancer. Cancer is not a trait I wish anyone to share with me; yet, it is the first thing I have in common with my new Iowa cousin. I promised prayers and knew my world wasn’t so big after all.
How could we be second cousins yet never knew the other existed? How did I not know I carry the gene for cystic fibrosis (another surprise)? How did I never imagine being related to so many people? But I suppose in many ways we are all connected—whether by DNA, a disease, a familial trait (somehow my height comes from a Neanderthal ancestor!) or a shared faith.
This week my world got larger and smaller at the same time. 23 and me became 23 and more. And who doesn’t want more of a good thing?
Eileen O'Connell, OSB
