Her Modern Courage

Never has this quote meant so much to me then after reading Angelina Jolie’s op ed piece in the Times yesterday. Her decision to undergo preventive surgery in order to change the odds on her life is incredibly brave and to me, defines the word courage. Yes, it is terribly controversial as she did not actually have cancer but after learning that she carries the faulty BRCA1 gene, she took control of her life’s course and changed her odds of developing breast cancer from 85 percent to just under 5 percent.

This is a woman that has her priorities straight. In this day when image reigns so supreme, it is so encouraging to hear someone so flooded in that limelight expressing her priorities in life- to be here and spend time with her children and family. I’m so grateful that she decided to open up and tell her story so that others might benefit as well. Let’s be honest, she is known for her body and quite specifically, for her breasts. She could have easily kept everything private and not messed with her public image, but her bravery to come out and make this admission is really a game changer. I think that most women are terrified that a double mastectomy, while potentially a lifesaver, will strip us of our sex appeal. In actuality, the surgery has come a long way but if the sexiest couple in the world endures this with love and grace, then all bets are off. The stress that Jolie places on the importance of that support from one’s partner is what warms my heart- our golden couple laughing and loving their way through such a grueling process- if these two aren’t the definition of modern day idols, I don’t know who is. They understand they have a responsibility to set an example as lauded public figures, and they really do the right thing. Even choosing to express her feelings and reveal her experience via an op ed piece as opposed to appearing on The Today Show, is a refreshing and enlightened choice.

She does point out that preventive testing is expensive and that all may not be able to afford it, but hopefully her statement will help to influence the medical industry to make this testing a reality for those that fall under great risk. It makes me proud that Jolie is an American actress and activist. She just turned her badass button way up. Look out Lara Croft, Angelina Jolie kicks ass!

{Image: Olin Scarf/Getty Images}

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