Danielle Fishel, known for her iconic role as Topanga on the 1990s sitcom Boy Meets World, revealed on her Pod Meets World podcast that doctors discovered breast cancer during a routine screening. However, Fishel says an early diagnosis means the 43-year-old actress is expected to fully recover.
In a recent episode, Fishel informed listeners that she was found to have Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or stage zero breast cancer. This early detection means the cancerous cells have not spread outside of the breast ducts. “They found it so early that I’m going to be fine,” assured Fishel. She plans to have surgery to remove the growth, and will work with a team of doctors to determine the best follow-up care.
The actress credits regular cancer screenings with catching her case at such an early and treatable stage. “If you have to find out that you have cancer, find out when it’s at stage zero, if possible,” urged Fishel.
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She hopes sharing her story will encourage others to prioritize their health. Fishel was inspired to go public by author Glennon Doyle’s writings about women supporting each other.
On the podcast, Fishel’s co-host and former Boy Meets World co-star Will Friedle expressed his support, saying, “We love you, and you know that we’ve got you. Whatever you need, we’re here.” Fishel began her career in television with guest appearances in the 1990s, before starring as Topanga in Boy Meets World from 1993 to 2000. More recently, she has worked as a director while occasionally reprising her fan-favorite character.
The mother of two and wife of writer Jensen Karp remains optimistic as she begins treatment for her early-stage breast cancer. Through openness about her diagnosis, Fishel aims to remind women of the importance of regular screenings in detecting cancer at its most treatable phases.
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