October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and many women courageously share their stories this time of year to encourage other women to monitor their breast health. Sometimes, they reveal a diagnosis that was otherwise kept under wraps because the timing feels right to share. Jenna Fischer, 50, made a stunning revelation on October 8 when she shared on Instagram that she was cancer-free after a diagnosis in December 2023.
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Jenna Never Thought She’d Make This Type of Announcement
The Office alum shared that she jokingly told followers to “take care of your ticking time bags,” a nod to Michael Scott in October 2023. But a mammogram shortly after brought a shocking diagnosis. Jenna had stage 1 triple-positive breast cancer. Doctors caught the disease early, but because it was aggressive, she endured a lengthy treatment period.
Jenna had a lumpectomy followed by 12 rounds of weekly chemotherapy and then radiation. She continues treating her cancer with medication at home but shared, “I’m happy to say I’m feeling great.”
She wrote that she’s announcing now because other women sharing their stories inspired her. Jenna hopes she will encourage women to get their annual mammogram.
“If I had waited six months longer, things could have been much worse. It could have spread. Seeing women post photos of their mammogram appointments on Instagram needled me into setting my own (which I was late for.) I am so glad I did. Consider this your kick in the butt to get it done.
Fans shared their love for Jenna.
A fan wrote, “My jaw dropped. Thank you for the vulnerability and for using your platform correctly. Sending you so much love.”
Many others shared positive thoughts with Jenna. “Love you, Jenna, thank you for sharing your story. Get your checkups, all.”
Fellow breast cancer survivor Olivia Munn praised her friend, “You already know how much I love you and how incredibly proud of you I am. But I just want to say it again I love you, and by sharing your story, you’re helping so many women and saving so many lives. You’re just the best.”
This story’s featured image is by Katie Jones/Variety via Getty Images.
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