Christina Applegate’s Breast Cancer Victory
After being diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer, Christina Applegate wasted no time. Applegate’s spokesperson released a statement in August, 2009, saying that the cancer was found early, thanks to a doctor-ordered MRI. Because of its early detection, the cancer was not life-threatening and was limited to only one breast. A full recovery was expected.
Following the treatment recommendations of her doctor, the star underwent an immediate double mastectomy (both breasts were removed) and was declared by her doctors to be free of cancer. During the months that followed, the star had both breasts reconstructed.
Applegate’s decision to have a double mastectomy was due, in part, to having inherited a genetic mutation called the BRCA1. The gene creates a greater likelihood of developing breast cancer. Another benefit of the double mastectomy was that it meant she wouldn’t need chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
The star became a national celebrity with her first major television role in “Married … With Children,” a popular 80s and 90s sitcom on which she played the ditsy but hot teenager, Kelly Bundy. After her role on “Married,” Applegate went on to a career in film. She starred in several big screen movies, including “The Sweetest Thing,” “Just Visiting,” “View From The Top,” and “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.”
Applegate also appeared in a number of Broadway hits before starring in her hit TV show “Samantha Who?” She’s won a number of awards for acting, including an Emmy in 2003 for a guest appearance on the sitcom “Friends,” and The People’s Choice Award as Favorite Female TV Star in 2009 for her sitcom “Samantha Who?” Applegate has also been nominated for three Golden Globe Awards for her acting on “Samantha Who?” She began her acting career in the 1981 fright movie, “Jaws of Satan.”
