Rita Wilson Has Cancer, Urges Women To Trust Their Gut Instinct And Get A Second Opinion

As the Inquisitr revealed yesterday, the wife of actor Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, has cancer. And, in an effort to beat breast cancer, she also underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Rita Wilson, 58, revealed she has cancer in an exclusive statement to People.

“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. 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.”

After revealing Rita Wilson has cancer, the actress went on to explain the importance of trusting your gut and always getting a second opinion when required. Wilson has what is known as LCIS (lobular carcinoma in situ). According to BreastCancer.org, this means as follows.

“… an area (or areas) of abnormal cell growth that increases a person’s risk of developing invasive breast cancer later on in life. Lobular means that the abnormal cells start growing in the lobules, the milk-producing glands at the end of breast ducts. Carcinoma refers to any cancer that begins in the skin or other tissues that cover internal organs — such as breast tissue. In situ or ‘in its original place’ means that the abnormal growth remains inside the lobule and does not spread to surrounding tissues.”

When biopsies Rita Wilson had came back negative to cancer, at the advice of a friend who had also suffered from cancer told her to trust her gut instinct and get a second opinion. Wilson got that second opinion and pathologists revealed the worst news: invasive lobular carcinoma. In an effort to beat this cancer, Wilson had surgery. She has also gone public about her battle in an effort to get people thinking about their health and to take matters seriously if they think something might be wrong.

“I share this to educate others that a second opinion is critical to your health. 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. Early diagnosis is key.”

Before it was revealed Rita Wilson has cancer, she was appearing on Broadway in Fish in the Dark. According to E! News, a replacement has not been named, but Rita will return to Broadway on May 5.

The Inquisitr wishes Rita Wilson a speedy recovery and urge fans to get a second opinion from a qualified medical professional if they feel their diagnosis is incorrect.

[Image Credit: Getty Images]