Maria Menounos, the 45-year-old television star, has revealed that she successfully battled pancreatic cancer after receiving an early diagnosis of the disease in January. In an interview with People, Menounos spoke openly about her experience with and triumph over cancer, and is now promoting the importance of taking charge of one’s health.
Menounos, who had previously dealt with a brain tumor and a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, emphasized the significance of early detection in saving her life. After experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea, she underwent a full-body MRI scan which revealed a 3.9-centimeter growth on her pancreas. A biopsy confirmed that it was a malignant Stage 2 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor.
Due to the early stage of her cancer, Menounos had a favorable prognosis. On February 16, she underwent surgery to remove the tumor, along with a large fibroid, 17 lymph nodes, part of her pancreas, and her spleen. The procedure was described as extremely painful, but Menounos is now on the road to recovery.
Following her successful battle with cancer, Menounos took to Instagram to express her gratitude and to share her intention of using her platform to raise awareness and help others. She wrote, “First, dealing with the diabetes diagnosis last summer, second (my other miracle) preparing for my soon-to-be newborn baby, and third, pancreatic cancer. I still haven’t come to grips with it all, including the fact that so very few even survive pancreatic cancer.”
Menounos’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the power of resilience in overcoming life’s challenges. Her determination to spread knowledge and support others facing similar battles is commendable.
