There are plenty of examples of celebrities who have made a demonstrably positive impact by sharing their stories. After actress Christina Applegate was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36, and decided to have a double mastectomy as a preventive measure against future recurrence of the disease, it gained a lot of attention to the plight faced by those who are genetically predisposed to developing this form of cancer. Ms. Applegate’s situation has helped make the BRCA genes 1 and 2 famous, and many more people than before now know about the breast cancer risk presented by mutations in these genetic tumor-fighters.
When Australian singer Kylie Minogue came forward about her battle with breast cancer in 2005, it struck a chord with women all around the world. In subsequent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of women between the ages of 25 and 44 who have chosen to be screened for breast cancer. While it cannot be proven that Ms. Minogue is responsible for all of this, there is no doubt that her tireless public campaigns encouraging women to get themselves tested has had a big impact.
There is a surprising name among the list of celebrity victims who have gone public to help aid the fight against breast cancer – Richard Roundtree. Yes, that’s right – we’re talkin’ ‘bout Shaft. Richard Roundtree discovered a lump in his right breast in 1993, and when it turned out to be breast cancer he went through chemotherapy, radiation and mastectomy before finally beating the disease. In subsequent years, Mr. Roundtree has spoken frequently with men’s groups, and has done a lot of work with the well-known Susan G. Komen Foundation. Richard Roundtree is living proof that men can and are diagnosed with breast cancer, and having a celebrity spokesman for what is usually thought of as a woman’s disease has likely had inestimable benefits.
One of the most controversial breast cancer survivors is Suzanne Somers. The former “Three’s Company” star has taken an unorthodox approach to her advocacy, campaigning against chemotherapy while promoting alternative practitioners and approaches to cancer treatment. Ms. Somers gives part of the credit for her own recovery to mistletoe extract, a homeopathic-style remedy that many have claimed works as a cure for cancer.
Not surprising, Suzanne Somers has come under blistering attack from many established, mainstream cancer organizations. Ultimately, a woman considering alternative cures for breast cancer will have to decide for themselves if alternative practitioners really have something to offer, or if the criticism most receive from the cancer establishment is fair and accurate. Overall, by introducing people to the ongoing debate about what is or is not a legitimate weapon in the fight against cancer Suzanne Somers has probably had a positive impact, hysterical condemnations from some quarters notwithstanding. Those who have followed her story and the reaction to it have been exposed to both sides of the “establishment vs. alternative” debate. Thanks to Ms. Somers, people can now see for themselves what all of the fuss is about, and they can make up their own minds about what is truth and what is propaganda. If mainstream cancer authorities do indeed have the stronger case, then they should have nothing to fear.
If it Can Happen to the Rich and Famous, it Can Happen to You
There is no doubt that celebrities have helped raise awareness about the ravages and destructiveness of breast cancer. At the same time, celebrity spokeswomen and men have also helped raise a lot of money for research, and treatment or prevention for those who cannot afford it. It is difficult to know which is the more valuable service; but the more celebrities who have been stricken with this terrible disease that speak out, the more positive publicity the fight against breast cancer is going to receive. In the end, celebrities supporting this worthwhile cause are performing a terrific public service, and for that they deserve our praise and thanks.
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