Shannen Doherty’s journey of fighting breast cancer for the past eight years has not been easy, but her resilience and positive attitude continue to inspire many. In a recent Instagram post, she shared an update on her health, mentioning an early-morning doctor’s visit for scans. Despite the challenges she faces, Doherty showcased her vibrant spirit by sharing a photo of herself with pink bandages and the hashtag “#cancerslayer.”
In 2015, Doherty discovered a lump in her breast and received the devastating news of her breast cancer diagnosis. Since then, she has undergone hormone treatment, radiation, chemotherapy, and a single mastectomy. In 2017, she experienced a period of remission, only to have stage IV breast cancer return in February 2020, affecting other areas of her body as well.
Breast cancer is classified into stages, ranging from 0 to IV, indicating the severity and extent of the disease. Stage 0 refers to noninvasive cancer confined within the milk ducts, while stage IV, also known as metastatic breast cancer, signifies that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body – the stage in which Doherty finds herself.
According to the American Cancer Society, there are over 150,000 breast cancer survivors in the US living with metastatic disease. Although metastatic breast cancer is often incurable, advancements in technology have significantly increased the lifespan of people diagnosed with this condition.
Throughout her battle with cancer, Doherty has used social media as a platform to share various aspects of her journey, including her experiences with chemotherapy. In an article from October of last year, she opened up about nosebleeds caused by the treatment. Doherty also mentioned her burnout but found solace and laughter by donning hilarious pajamas given to her by a friend, Kristy. These moments of humor and self-reflection helped her find strength in the face of the seemingly impossible.
To stay strong during her challenging years of cancer treatment, Doherty continued to pursue her passion for acting. Last year, she appeared in two TV movies: “List of a Lifetime” and “Dying to Belong.” Her determination and dedication serve as an inspiration to all who face adversity.
Through her resilience, Shannen Doherty reminds us to find joy in the little things, embrace laughter, and maintain a positive outlook, even when faced with the toughest battles. Her story serves as a testament to the human spirit and the power of finding humor in the face of adversity.
