23andMe

Spit in a test tube to learn about your genes, as well as contribute to the growing gene database.

Everyone is different. In fact, these differences are exactly what I appreciate about my friends and family. It is what makes you, you. So this week, I Find and embrace the very underpinnings of those differences that make me, me! Let me properly introduce myself. My name is Bryan Scott Verona and I am 97.5% Ashkenazi, 2.7% Neanderthal, and have a slightly elevated risk of Restless Leg Syndrome! Now it all makes sense, especially the Neanderthal! My brother introduced me to 23andMe years ago and I proudly spit in a test tube to learn about my genes, as well as contribute to the growing gene database. The company was founded by biologist Anne Wojicicki, Sergei Brin’s (of Google fame) ex-wife. Generally, the idea is that everyone should know their genetic information and a comprehensive database of this information will improve our collective understanding of the human condition. Specifically, 23 and Me studies your genes and gives you an overview of your DNA, providing carrier status, ancestry, wellness and traits reports. I have learned about my various potential health risks, my inherited conditions, my physical traits (it’s weird how much it knew), as well as my ancestral composition. This has allowed me the foresight to change my behavior with the knowledge of what may be to come as I age. For $199 you will receive a kit and get your results in about 6-8 weeks after submission. All you have to do is order, spit, and then discover what your 23 chromosomes say about you. Then you can better know thyself, see if you have any risks that you should be aware of, and discover whether you too share my Neanderthal heritage!