Topics: The Office, Cancer
Warning: This article contains discussion of cancer which some readers may find distressing
The Office star Jenna Fischer has revealed that she was privately battling breast cancer over the past year.
Taking to her Instagram, Fischer — who played Pam Beesley on the legendary sitcom — posted a statement sharing her journey in honor of breast cancer awareness month.
"Back in October of 2023 I posted a photo of myself on Instagram preparing for my routine mammogram with a joking reminder to 'take care of your ticking time bags' a la Michael Scott," the actress wrote in her statement.
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"After inconclusive results on that mammogram due to dense breast tissue, my doctor ordered a breast ultrasound. They found something in my left breast. A biopsy was ordered.
"Then, on December 1, 2023, I learned I had Stage 1 Triple Positive Breast Cancer.
"Triple positive breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer but it is also highly responsive to treatment. In January, I had a lumpectomy to remove the tumor. Luckily my cancer was caught early and it hadn't spread into my lymph nodes or throughout the rest of my body, however because of the aggressive nature of triple positive breast cancer it still required chemotherapy and radiation to be sure it didn't return.
"In February I began 12 rounds of weekly chemotherapy, and in June I started three weeks of radiation. And while I continue to be treated with infusions of Herceptin and a daily dose of Tamoxifen, I'm happy to say I'm feeling great."
The actress went on to detail her journey with chemotherapy, the support she received from her family, and the importance for those with breasts to schedule their annual mammograms.
"I'm making this announcement for a few reasons. One, I'm ready to ditch the wigs. Two, to implore you to get your annual mammograms," Fischer noted.
"You can also ask your doctor to calculate your Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score and get any additional screenings required. I'm serious, call your doctor right now."
The Office fan-favorite then went on to reveal that she is currently cancer free but is still undergoing treatment throughout her remission.
"I'm happy to say that I was recently re-screened, and the treatments worked. I am cancer free. I will continue to be treated and monitored to help me stay that way.
"Again, don't skip your mammogram. Take it from Pam and her Pam Pams. Michael was right. Get 'em checked ladies. And know that should you get a breast cancer diagnosis, there is a village waiting to care for you."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.
