Rita Wilson diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoes double mastectomy

WLS logo
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Rita Wilson, actress and wife of Tom Hanks, has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
creativeContent-AP

Actress Rita Wilson has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Wilson, 58, revealed in a new interview with People her diagnosis and how she feels blessed to have her husband, Tom Hanks, family and friends by her side during the difficult time.

"I have taken a leave from the play Fish in the Dark to deal with a personal health issue," Wilson told 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."

Wilson credits her getting a second opinion to helping detect the cancer early. "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," Wilson told People. "A different pathologist found invasive lobular carcinoma. His diagnosis of cancer was confirmed by, yet, another pathologist."

"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," Wilson said.

The actress also shared the news to her Facebook page.

Wilson is best known for her film and TV roles including "Sleepless in Seattle," "Jingle All the Way," and her Broadway credits including "Chicago." Wilson has been married to Tom Hanks since 1988.