The Office star Jenna Fischer has announced she is now “cancer-free” after secretly undergoing treatment this year. The actor shared her news on Instagram to spread awareness as part of breast cancer awareness month, which takes place in October.
She was diagnosed with Stage One Triple Positive Breast Cancer in December and went through rounds of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Fischer, who is best known for her role as the loveable Pam on the US sitcom, shared a carousel on Instagram to share the positive news.
The star mentioned she went in for a routine mammogram to “take care of [her] ticking time bags” à la Michael Scott in October 2023, and was given her diagnosis on December 1, 2023.
“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 tumour,” she wrote.
“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.”
Fischer mentioned she did lose her hair during chemo, but was able to hide this from the public with the help of some really great wigs. She said she wanted to share her diagnosis with the public for multiple reasons: she’s ready to ditch the wigs, and she wanted to urge other women to get checked.
The Hollywood star also wanted to offer her support to any other people going through cancer, and thanked her “village” for helping her during the past year. She leaned on her family — she has two children with her husband Lee — and their support network.
Of course, her The Office bestie Angela Kinsey who she records the Office Ladies podcast with, got a special mention.
“I work with my best friend Angela Kinsey who protected me and advocated for me. For a long time, she was the only person in my workspace who knew. When I lost my hair, she wore hats to our work meetings so I wouldn’t be the only one. When I needed a break, we took one,” Fischer wrote.
“Cancer treatment requires a lot of flexibility. For a gal who likes to plan, that was a hard adjustment. But, continuing to work has brought so much joy to my life during treatment.
“I am 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.”
She signed off with another The Office reference, urging everybody to get checked.
“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,” she said.
Fischer was inundated with comments from other celebs who praised her for sharing her story, including Jennifer Garner, Olivia Munn and Ellie Kemper.
I’m wishing her all the best with her recovery, and sending a big “fuck you” to cancer!!!
Lead image: NBC
