Angelina Jolie has spoken publicly about the gratitude she feels for her double mastectomy scars, a result of the preventive surgery she chose in 2013. The actress, known for her role in Netflix’s Maria, underwent the bilateral mastectomy after discovering she carries the BRCA1 gene, which significantly raises the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Jolie’s decision was motivated by a desire to protect her health and remain present for her children.
Choosing Surgery as a Preventive Measure Against Cancer
Though Jolie had no signs of breast cancer at the time, learning about her genetic risk prompted her to take proactive action. She opted for the surgery as a precaution, explaining the importance of having the autonomy to make such choices. In a recent interview with France Inter, Jolie reflected on her lasting feelings toward the physical reminders of her surgery, emphasizing the meaning behind her scars.
Embracing Scars as Symbols of Life and Strength
In a clip from the France Inter interview shared on TikTok on February 10, Jolie expressed a personal mindset toward scars. She said,
“I’ve never found it, I don’t, I’m not drawn to some perfect idea of a life that has no scars,”
highlighting her acceptance of imperfection and the marks left by lived experiences. The actor described her scars as a conscious decision, stating they represent the effort she made
“to stay here as long as [she] could with [her] children,”
and concluded she loves her scars for that reason.
Family and Personal Legacy Influence Her Perspective
Angelina Jolie is mother to six children—Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne—whom she shares with her former husband Brad Pitt. Her motivation to protect her future with them draws from her past, notably the loss of her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, who died in 2007 from complications related to ovarian and breast cancer. Jolie remarked,
“I lost my mum when I was young and I’m raising my children without a grandmother.”
Reflection on Life’s Imperfections and Choices
Jolie further stated to France Inter,
“I think this is life. If you get to the end of your life and you haven’t made mistakes, you haven’t made a mess, you don’t have scars – you haven’t lived a full enough life.”
She has said she does not recommend everyone make the same choice but values the importance of having it, expressing gratitude for the ability to act proactively on her health, informed by her family history and experiences.
Resources for Those Affected by Cancer
For individuals impacted by breast or ovarian cancer concerns, the American Cancer Society offers confidential support, accessible 24/7 by phone at 1-800-227-2345 or via their online live chat service. Jolie’s openness contributes to awareness around these health issues and encourages informed personal decisions.
