Danielle Fishel, renowned for her role in “Boy Meets World,” recently captivated audiences not just with her dance moves on the premiere of “Dancing With the Stars” Season 34, but also with her candid revelation about her battle with cancer. Last year, in 2024, she disclosed her diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), an early form of breast cancer where the malignancy is confined to milk ducts and has not spread into surrounding tissues.
Fishel’s diagnosis came following a routine mammogram scheduled as part of her annual health check. On her podcast, “Pod Meets World,” she reassured listeners that her condition was in its very nascent stage, technically categorized as “stage zero,” highlighting that the cancer had been detected early with a high grade but minimal invasion.
Opting for a proactive approach, Fishel underwent a lumpectomy in August 2024, followed by additional surgery in September. Fortunately, due to the early detection of the disease, a double mastectomy wasn’t deemed necessary. Subsequent scans revealed no remaining trace of cancer, and her mammograms were clear. Nevertheless, Fishel chose to undergo radiation therapy to minimize any risk of recurrence, completing her treatment in January. This involved 15 sessions of whole breast radiation and five targeted treatments.
Despite the radiation procedure being manageable, Fishel encountered challenging side effects, including severe sunburn-like symptoms and itching, conditions she discussed openly with her podcast audience. Post-radiation, she was advised to begin hormone therapy with Tamoxifen, a regimen she will continue for the next five years.
Today, Fishel is cancer-free and is diligently managing her well-being as she embraces the physical demands of participating in “Dancing With the Stars.” She emphasized the importance of daily stretching, hydration, and occasional cold plunges to support her muscle recovery after intense rehearsals.
As fans cheer for her on the dance floor, Fishel continues to inspire with her resilience and commitment to health. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of regular health screenings and the power of early detection in successfully battling cancer.