Rita Wilson Has Breast Cancer, Underwent Double Mastectomy
Tom Hanks' wife speaks out on how a second opinion was key in diagnosis.
— -- Actress Rita Wilson revealed today that she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone a double mastectomy.
Wilson, 58, who is married to Oscar winner Tom Hanks, told People magazine, "I have taken a leave from the play 'Fish in the Dark' to deal with a personal health issue. 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."
She added that she expects to make a full recovery because she caught the cancer early.
"I have had an underlying condition of LCIS, (lobular carcinoma in situ) which has been vigilantly monitored through yearly mammograms and breast MRIs. Recently, after two surgical breast biopsies, PLCIS (pleomorphic carcinoma in situ) was discovered," she continued.
After a pathology showed no cancer, Wilson opted for a second opinion.
"My gut told me that was the thing to do. A different pathologist found invasive lobular carcinoma. 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," she said. "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."
The "Girls" actress said she is getting better every day and feels "blessed to have a loving, supportive husband, family, friends and doctors."
Wilson married Hanks in 1988 and the couple have two children.