Rita Wilson shares breast cancer diagnosis, recent double masectomy

Actress Rita Wilson said in remarks published Tuesday that she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone a double mastectomy, followed by reconstructive surgery.

The 58-year-old entertainer and wife of actor Tom Hanks said in a statement to People that she feels “blessed” to have the love and support of her husband, friends, family and the doctors who saved her life.

“I have taken a leave from the play ‘Fish in the Dark’ to deal with a personal health issue,” said Wilson, who will return to the Broadway play on May 5.

“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,” Wilson said

“I am recovering and most importantly, expected to make a full recovery. Why? Because I caught this early, have excellent doctors and because I got a second opinion.”

Wilson told People that tests she had showed no cancer.

“However, a friend who had had breast cancer suggested I get a second opinion on my pathology and 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.

“I hope this will encourage others to get a second opinion and to trust their instincts if something doesn’t ‘feel’ right.”

— City News Service