Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy

Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy

As a lifestyle expert with years of experience under my belt, I find myself deeply moved by the inspiring stories of resilience and courage that emerge from individuals battling life-threatening illnesses. The story of Ananda Lewis, the former MTV VJ who has bravely faced Stage IV breast cancer after choosing not to undergo a double mastectomy, is one such tale that resonates profoundly.


Previously known MTV Video Jockey, Ananda Lewis, has disclosed that her breast cancer has progressed to stage IV following her decision to defy her doctor’s advice and opt out of a double mastectomy procedure.

In 2020, Lewis, aged 51, was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer. She shared this news on Instagram, acknowledging that she had avoided mammograms for quite some time because of her concern about radiation risk.

During an interview with Stephanie Elam on CNN, Lewis shared that she opted not to remove her tumor initially upon diagnosis, explaining her rationale behind this decision.

Initially, Lewis aimed to eliminate excess toxins from his system, as he firmly believed in the intelligence of his body – a belief he finds validated. After all, our bodies are masterfully crafted.

She expressed that instead of having her tumor removed, she chose an alternative approach to expel it from her body. Reflecting on this decision later, she mused, “In hindsight, I wish I had opted for the surgery.

Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy

Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy

Instead, Lewis opted for homeopathic treatments along with medication and radiation therapy. For a time, her condition showed signs of improvement, but it was revealed last year that the cancer had progressed.

I’ve never experienced anything quite like this before, but my body seems to have taken me straight to the gates of mortality. It was as if Death and I were having a heart-to-heart, and in that moment, I could only utter, ‘This is it, I suppose.’

“I thought I had the situation under control, but I was wrong. I felt annoyed and a bit self-critical, and I said something like, ‘Look, I sense you’re planning to challenge me sometime soon. I don’t want it to be now, if possible. But when you do, I guarantee it’ll be an enjoyable experience for you.’

Lewis mentioned that he actually had this discussion while lying in his bed. In fact, he was so unable to leave his bed that it took him around eight weeks.

Regarding her choice against undergoing surgery, Lewis expressed: “My quality of life mattered greatly to me; there are some things that I just can’t compromise on. I know my limits and what I won’t accept. I wanted to ensure I wanted to be here, so I needed to make my decisions in a way that aligns with who I am.

Journalist Sara Sidner, who has been dealing with Stage III breast cancer since this year, also joined Lewis and Elam in their conversation.

52-year-old Sidner experienced a double mastectomy in May and expressed that her cancer diagnosis sparked a newfound understanding within her: “I long to stay alive… I yearn to prosper in ways I’ve never known before.

Sharing an intimate chat on Instagram, here’s what I have to say about two remarkable women who mean the world to me – Ananda Lewis and Sara Sidner. They are not just acquaintances, but my cherished sisters, my chosen family. Through thick and thin, we stand by each other, offering support in every moment, whether it’s a time of joy or hardship.

Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy
Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis reveals her breast cancer has spread after she refused double mastectomy

When they embarked on their individual battles against breast cancer, I found myself uncertain about the most effective ways to offer support, and it became clear that my understanding of contemporary cancer treatments was limited.

She went on to say: “I am eternally thankful that they were ready to discuss things with me, to lay themselves bare for all to see.

‘Should a single individual decide to schedule a mammogram due to our chat, it would be considered a triumph. My ultimate goal is for each person to enjoy a lengthy, healthful existence.’

From the late ’90s to 2001, Lewis served as a VJ for MTV. After that, she departed from the network and started hosting her self-titled syndicated television talk show, simply known as “The Ananda Lewis Show.

From 2004 to 2005, she served as a correspondent for The Insider. Later, she switched careers to become a carpenter, and in 2019, she hosted the TLC’s revival of While You Were Out.

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2024-10-16 00:54

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