Angelina Jolie lost her mother to breast cancer in 2007. When her children ask if the same fate could befall her, she reassures them they don't need to worry—though she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation herself.
This genetic mutation sharply raises the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. To protect her health proactively, Angelina chose a preventive double mastectomy. For the three months leading up, her routine was consumed by medical evaluations, which she managed discreetly to maintain her professional commitments.
Sharing Her Journey
With the surgery and breast reconstruction now complete, Angelina opens up in a personal op-ed for The New York Times. She aims to empower other women facing similar risks by sharing her experience.
Family Strengthened
She can now tell her kids with certainty they won't lose her to breast cancer. Her husband, Brad Pitt, stood by her side throughout. The process, though challenging, drew their family even closer.
Read Angelina's New York Times column >>
