CNN Anchor Sara Sidner Shares Her Brave Battle Against Stage 3 Breast Cancer

In a heartfelt on-air revelation, CNN anchor Sara Sidner disclosed on Monday that she is currently undergoing treatment for stage 3 breast cancer. The 51-year-old journalist, known for her dedication to reporting, shared her diagnosis during an emotional segment on "CNN News Central," a show she co-hosts.

Sidner, who has never experienced serious illness before, expressed her shock at being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, emphasizing that the disease doesn't run in her family. Despite not having typical risk factors, she has entered her second month of chemotherapy and is set to undergo radiation therapy and a double mastectomy.

Remaining optimistic, Sidner reassured viewers that stage 3 breast cancer is no longer a death sentence for most women, thanks to advancements in medical treatment. Her announcement served not only to update her audience on her health but also as a reminder to women, particularly Black women who face higher mortality rates, to prioritize regular screenings.

The journalist discovered her condition while covering the Israel-Hamas war in October. Doctors advised her to undergo a biopsy after concerns arose from a mammogram taken upon her return to the U.S.

During her announcement, Sidner urged women of all backgrounds to prioritize regular mammograms and self-examinations, stressing the importance of early detection. Black women, in particular, face a 40 percent higher likelihood of dying from breast cancer compared to their White counterparts.

Despite the challenges ahead, Sidner unexpectedly expressed gratitude for the diagnosis, citing a shift in her perspective on life. "I have thanked cancer for choosing me," she said, holding back tears. "I'm learning that no matter what hell we go through in life, that I am still madly in love with this life, and just being alive feels really different for me now."