Olivia Munn, one of the names on TIME’s list of Women of the Year, recently opened up about why she felt the need to share her breast cancer diagnosis with the world. During the red carpet interview at the TIME 2025 Women of the Year Gala in Los Angeles, the American actor shared why decided to come forward:
“I thought how many women out there, walking around feeling the same way I felt. I had done my mammogram, ultrasound and genetic testing. I did everything I was told was the right thing to do and yet I had cancer. At that moment, I knew that I had to find a way to talk about it because if I can save any other woman’s life, it would be worth it to take that big jump and tell my story.”
Earlier, Munn had taken to social media that despite testing negative for 90 cancer-related genes, including the BRCA gene, and receiving a normal mammogram in February 2023, she was diagnosed with breast cancer just two months later. She then underwent a double mastectomy.
Counselling psychologist Srishti Vatsa said that women suffering from breast cancer undergo harrowing physical procedures, which can be equally taxing emotionally. The entire experience can be very traumatic.
According to Psychologist Priyamvada Tendulkar, being vocal about these experiences foster confidence, inspires others, and creates a sense of solidarity— it acts as a beacon of hope for those feeling isolated or self-conscious about their experience.
“Being able to share something like that, with genuine vulnerability and not weakness, because it requires immense courage to show up and own a less-than-perfect part of yourself, and “expose” it to the world, which may respond with cruelty, is a tremendous act of self acceptance. It is a rejection of isolation and shame, and a move that is powerful, inspiring and empowering,” she said.
Talking about it openly not only boosts your own confidence but also acts as a beacon of hope and self acceptance against fears about society’s judgement and critique.
