When thinking of Janice Dickinson, the word "outspoken" immediately pops into mind. Staying true to this persona, the supermodel isn't shying away from sharing some scary news. Dickinson revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in an exclusive video interview with the Daily Mail. The 61-year-old is determined to beat the disease, which was discovered during a routine medical exam. She said,
Just two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. And it's hard for me to say this but I just said it: I've been diagnosed with breast cancer. It's still quite shocking. I've had plastic surgery and I've had breast implants. I've always been very vocal about what I've done, because I tell the truth about everything. As I am right now.
Considering the reality star has always been honest, her openness isn't surprising, but that doesn't make it any less inspiring. She added, "I'm doing this for women of all ethnicities, all ages. I want to be able to tell my truth. And I feel like I'm living a nightmarish dream, to be honest." The fact that she's sharing her story in the hopes of helping other women — whether to encourage them to go get an exam or let them know they're not alone — makes this announcement all the more admirable. It's a battle no one should have to go through, but she's doing so with grace.
In the video, the former America's Next Top Model judge grapples with the idea of fear and how it's "a word that's never come out of [her] mouth." But because she has two children, a fiancé, and grandson, she is fearful for them. "When I found out, I knew I had to be brave and I knew I had to be strong," she said. "Because I know how loving and sensitive both my kids are."
Still, despite her insistence on being strong for those around her, that doesn't mean she's not afraid. Dickinson admitted, "I just got scared. It hit me. But I am not going to let that define me — the fear." While the fear is more than warranted, she's moving forward and holding her head high. She ended the video on an optimistic note and declared,
I'm going to get through this. You betcha, kiddo. And I'll be just fine. This is not a pity party. I'm Janice Dickinson and I'm going to stick around for a long, long time.
This news is undeniably heartbreaking, but bravo on her honesty and strength. In typical Janice Dickinson style, she's not shying away from telling the truth and she's got a tough attitude about it. Sure, she doesn't need a pity party, but that doesn't mean fans (myself included) aren't rooting for her to get through this and get well soon.
