“Today” show contributor Jill Martin has successfully overcome breast cancer, but like many other survivors, she continues to worry about the possibility of a recurrence. According to data from the National Library of Medicine, around 30 percent of diagnosis/” title=”Elle Macpherson Shares Breast Cancer Journey 7 Years After Diagnosis”>breast cancer
patients in remission can expect the illness to return after treatment.Martin expressed her thoughts on this ongoing battle, stating that for many survivors, it never truly feels over. She shared her diagnosis on the NBC morning show in July 2023 and underwent chemotherapy as well as a double mastectomy. Despite being grateful for being cancer-free, Martin admitted that she still feels different physically and mentally after going through such an intense year.
Throughout her treatment journey, Martin maintained a positive outlook despite also announcing her divorce from husband Erik Brooks in August 2023. Registered nurse Rachel Fidino commended Martin for actively advocating for herself and raising awareness about breast cancer’s challenges post-treatment.
Dr. Anne Peled, a breast cancer surgeon and survivor, explained that each year without a recurrence makes it easier for survivors to cope with their experience. Peled emphasized that with comprehensive treatment like what Martin received, the chances of recurrence are fortunately low.
Martin celebrated completing her treatment by sharing an emotional video on Instagram where hospital staff cheered her on while she burst into tears. She expressed gratitude for catching her cancer early enough to treat it effectively but also admitted shock at having gone through such an ordeal.
While the overall breast cancer death rate has decreased significantly over time, there has been a slight increase in occurrences among women under 40 years old each year since 2012. To raise awareness about early testing and prevention options like genetic testing for BRCA mutations (which significantly increase one’s risk), Martin launched a clothing line with proceeds going towards the Basser Center for BRCA research.
Melanie DiSalvo and actress Angelina Jolie are examples of individuals who have undergone prophylactic surgery due to their increased risk from BRCA mutations. Four-time cancer survivor Vera Ventura believes that if Jill had known about her risk earlier or made significant lifestyle changes involving nutrition and habits associated with genetic cancers prevention could have been possible without losing body parts.
Ventura praised Jill’s dedication to helping women through initiatives like her clothing line focused on supporting those diagnosed with BRCA gene mutations.