Cheri Oteri brought laughs to many through her work on Saturday Night Live. However, she recently opened up about a serious time in her life, when a doctor made a drastic suggestion. However, she soon learned about the importance of second opinions, even revealing who helped her in her time of need.
Cheri Oteri Has Been Part Of A Number Of Projects Over The Years, From Saturday Night Live To Happy’s Place
Oteri is an actress and comedian. She became known to many after appearing on Saturday Night Live from 1995 to 2000.
Last year, Oteri joined NBC’s Happy’s Place as Monica, a recurring character. In addition, she’s had notable roles in Liar Liar, Inspector Gadget, Scary Movie, Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd, and Shrek the Third.
Recently, Oteri opened up about her health, particularly her breast cancer journey. The actress shared that she was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ, or Stage 0 breast cancer, back in February, following an annual mammogram.
Oteri initially believed that the early diagnosis would mena a straightforward treatment. However, doctors actually recommended a mastectomy because they weren;t confident about removing the cancer while leaving her breast looking “normal.”
Oteri decided it was for the best to get a second opinion. She ultimately underwnt a lumpectomy and radiation. This experience taught her that you should “trust your gut. Get a second opinion.”
Oteri Shared That The Practice & Ghost Whisperer Star Camryn Manheim Advised Her To Get A Second Opinion
Speaking with People, Oteri explained, “They said, ‘We think you should have a mastectomy.’ I lost it. I said, ‘I’m not even at stage 1. What are you talking about?’”
Oteri shared that it was a close friend, Camryn Manheim, who gave her guidance during this time. She explained, “Growing up the way I did, doctors were gods. But Camryn is Miss Second Opinion.”
Oteri decided to consult Los Angeles gynecologist Dr. Sherry Ross, who advised her not to make any decision until undergoing more tests. She then met with Dr. Janie Grumley, director of the breast program at St. John’s Cancer Institute in Santa Monica, who advised a lumpectomy and radiation. She underwent surgery the following April, with a follow-up procedure to remove residual cancer. Starting radiation in July, she shared, “I never felt any pain. And aesthetically, I couldn’t be happier.”
Oteri also shared that she was concerned that she didn’t endure enough for her story to hold much weight. However, Manheim talked her out of this mentality. As Oteri shared, “She said, ‘Why are you comparing your suffering to anyone else’s? Everybody suffers to different degrees. You had a win. You get to ring that fricking bell!’”
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John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.