Jenna Fischer reveals cancer battle to inspire regular check-ups
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Taking this opportunity, Jenna Fischer has revealed on social media that she received a frightening diagnosis last year. Things could have taken a tragic turn if she waited a few more months for the examination.
Fischer announced on Instagram that at the end of 2022, she was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer. The actress confessed that the diagnosis was made after her routine mammogram results were inconclusive due to the density of her breast tissue. Further tests showed changes in her left breast, which led to a biopsy and a final diagnosis.
Jenna further wrote that she underwent treatment: "After completing surgery, chemotherapy and radiation I am now cancer-free," wrote the actress, describing her difficult road to recovery. In January, her tumour was removed, which, as she notes, was detected early before the cancer had spread. Due to the aggressive nature of the disease, the actress had to undergo 12 sessions of chemotherapy, which began in February, and a three-week radiotherapy that took place in June. Fischer was also subjected to additional drug therapies.
As is often the case with oncology patients, the actress lost her hair due to the chemo. She concealed her condition during this time with wigs. She also revealed online why she is openly discussing her experiences today: "I’m making this announcement for a few reasons. One, I’m ready to ditch the wigs. Two, to implore you to get your annual mammograms," she wrote. She also added that the situation could have been much more serious if she had delayed the tests by six months.
Jenna Fischer star of "The Office"
Jenna Fischer's biggest and most significant role is the character of Pam in the series "The Office," where she starred for nine seasons alongside Steve Carell, John Krasinski, and Ed Helms.
Supportive comments from other stars, including Olivia Munn and Jennifer Garner, appeared under her post. "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," wrote Munn, who also battled cancer. Jennifer Garner added: "Congratulations, @msjennafischer !! I'm so grateful to know you're on the other side and cancer free!!"
