Before two life saving operations, Angelina Jolie had a 87% risk of breast cancer and a 50% chance of ovarian cancer. This is much higher than the normal risk, due to her having inherited the BRCA1 gene (Breast Cancer Care). Angelina has now had a double mastectomy (the complete or partial removal of the breast) and a salpingo-oophorectomy (the complete or partial removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes) and has had reconstructive surgery on her breasts. Jolie has been very open about her experiences and after the completion of both operations, has written a piece in The New York Times to inform other women about this risks and the options which are available. I think Jolie should be celebrated for being so open about these procedures. Many may feel that this is information one would not normally share, so it is beneficial that Jolie is using her high profile to educate women about these procedures. Jolie decided to have a double mastectomy for health reasons, but her brave decision shows women around the world that it is possible to not be defined by our bodies. Breasts are often perceived by society as the most feminine body part, making us 'womanly'. Yet without her own, Jolie has still been able to continue her achievements, both in her personal and private life. This shows that Jolie is as successful as she is now, not because of her body, but because of her mind, her beliefs and her actions. This an important message not only for BRAC carriers, but for humankind.
Written by Georgina
Edited by Lili
Picture credit: Ellen
http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-information/breast-awareness/am-i-risk/risk)
http://www.surgeryencyclopedia.com/Pa-St/Salpingo-Oophorectomy.html
http://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2011/aug/03/forbes-list-hollywood-wage-gap
http://www.unrefugees.org/angelina-jolie-unhcr-special-envoy/
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