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Rita Wilson has revealed that she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. The 58-year-old actress and wife of Tom Hanks opened up about her diagnosis to People, explaining that she will be stepping away from the Broadway play Fish in the Dark to focus on her health.
“Last week, with my husband by my side, and with the love and support of family and friends, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction for breast cancer after a diagnosis of invasive lobular carcinoma,” said Wilson, adding that she is “expected to make a full recovery.”
Wilson explained that part of the reason she will be able to beat the disease is because she caught the cancer early, and got a second opinion. She revealed that she had an underlying condition of LCIS (lobular carcinoma in situ), but had been closely monitoring it over the years with breast MRIs and mammograms.
“Recently, after two surgical breast biopsies, PLCIS (pleomorphic carcinoma in situ) was discovered,” said Wilson, adding, “I mention this because there is much unknown about PLCIS and it is often found alongside DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). I was relieved when the pathology showed no cancer.”
Wilson said a close of friend of hers, who had beaten breast cancer, suggested the actress get a second opinion about her pathology to be sure there were no signs of cancer. Wilson told People that the second pathologist “found invasive lobular carcinoma.” She continued, “His diagnosis of cancer was confirmed by, yet, another pathologist. I share this to educate others that a second opinion is critical to your health…. Early diagnosis is key.”
Wilson added, “I feel blessed to have a loving, supportive husband, family, friends and doctors and that I am the beneficiary of advances in the field of breast cancer and reconstruction. I am getting better every day and look forward to renewed health.” Gossip Cop wishes Wilson good health and a speedy recovery.
