Rita Wilson has just revealed she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone a double mastectomy. The actress and producer, married to Oscar winner Tom Hanks, is sharing her extremely difficult and personal journey in the hopes of educating others on the importance of seeking a second opinion. The Girls star, 58, expects to make a full recovery because she caught her cancer early, thanks in large part to her own “gut” instincts.
Producer of* *My Big Fat Greek Wedding, **Rita has an underlying condition of LCIS (lobular carcinoma in situ) which means she has been regularly monitored with mammograms and breast MRIs over the years. A recent biopsy discovered an in situ carcinoma, but the pathologist found no evidence of cancer. However, encouraged by a friend and her own gut instincts, Rita sought a second opinion which invariably saved her life. A different pathologist found invasive lobular carcinoma. His diagnosis allowed the Hollywood star to swiftly embark on life-saving breast cancer surgery.
Rita hopes sharing her story will highlight the importance of seeking a second opinion. She credits this and her regular screening with ensuring she’ll make a full recovery. “A second opinion is critical to your health. You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found, which does happen. Early diagnosis is key. I hope this will encourage others to get a second opinion and to trust their instincts if something doesn’t ‘feel’ right.”
Rita has taken leave from the play Fish in the Dark to deal with this serious health issue. She says she feels “blessed to have a loving, supportive husband, family, friends and doctors”.
