Angelina Jolie has had a double preventive mastectomy, the surgical removal of both breasts to prevent or reduce the risk of cancer.
Told by doctors that she had a high risk of developing the disease, in fact a 87 percent risk of breast cancer and a 50 percent risk of ovarian cancer; famed actress Jolie made the decision to have a preventive double mastectomy.
Jolie’s mother had fought cancer and sadly succumbed to the disease at 56. Jolie is a carrier of a gene, BRCA1, which greatly increases the risk of developing cancer, specifically of the breast and ovarian.
Over three months, the actress finished all her medical procedures April 27. In total, Jolie’s ordeal required three separate procedures.
In her self-authored New York Times article, Jolie credits the tremendous support from her family during this time, “I am fortunate to have a partner, Brad Pitt, who is so loving and supportive. So to anyone who has a wife or girlfriend going through this, know that you are a very important part of the transition.”
Capital Lifestyle Magazine wishes the actress a speedy recovery and thanks her for sharing her story, highlighting how important it is to be proactive with one’s health.
“Life comes with many challenges. The ones that should not scare us are the ones we can take on and take control of,” reminds Jolie.
