Actress Olivia Munn revealed on Wednesday that she had received a diagnosis of an aggressive form of breast cancer last year and subsequently underwent a double mastectomy as part of her treatment journey.
Munn, known for her roles in numerous movies and television shows, including the HBO series “The Newsroom,” shared her story in a heartfelt social media post, detailing her proactive approach to her health and the challenges she faced along the way.
In February 2023, shortly after a normal mammogram, Munn underwent a comprehensive genetic test checking for 90 cancer genes, all of which came back negative, including BRCA, the most well-known breast cancer gene. She joyfully recounted a moment of celebration with her sister upon receiving these results.
However, just two months later, Munn received the unexpected diagnosis of luminal B breast cancer, prompting her to undergo a double mastectomy a month thereafter. Reflecting on the past ten months, Munn shared the emotional and physical toll of four surgeries and numerous days spent recovering in bed, as well as the immense learning curve regarding cancer treatment and hormones.
Despite the challenges, Munn admitted to shedding tears only twice, attributing her focus on survival and treatment as the reason for her resilience. Her social media post served as a call to action for women to advocate for their health by requesting a breast cancer risk assessment score from their doctors.
Munn emphasized the pivotal role her obstetrician-gynecologist played in identifying her cancer early through a risk assessment that considered factors like familial breast cancer history and age. Notably, Munn mentioned that having her first child in her 30s was a contributing factor. Munn shares a son, Malcolm, with her partner, comedian John Mulaney, whom she has been in a relationship with since 2021.
The results of Munn’s risk assessment prompted further screenings, including an M.R.I. and ultrasound, which ultimately led to a biopsy confirming the cancer diagnosis. Throughout her ordeal, Munn expressed gratitude to her medical team, friends, and family for their unwavering support.
She specifically thanked Mulaney for his dedication in researching her treatments and medications, ensuring she had the information needed regarding side effects and recovery. Despite the challenges, Munn’s social media continued to reflect moments of joy and glamour, from family outings at the beach to attending prestigious events like the Oscars.
However, she admitted to keeping her diagnosis, treatment journey, and recovery largely private until now, choosing to share her story once she had processed and navigated through some of the most difficult aspects of her journey.
In her poignant message, Munn emphasized the importance of self-advocacy, early detection, and the support of loved ones in facing cancer. Her transparency and resilience serve as an inspiration to many, reminding us all of the importance of prioritizing our health and seeking support when needed.
As Munn continues her journey towards recovery, her story stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of community in overcoming life’s greatest challenges.
