Actress and dancer Brittany Parks, 38, has revealed she was diagnosed with stage 2 triple negative breast cancer in March after undergoing tests. Parks, who performed as a dancer on the television series Glee from 2009 until 2015, shared the health update on Instagram over the weekend.
In her social media post, Parks explained the initial shock of sharing her health status with loved ones. "You never think you’ll be the one sitting here trying to figure out the best way to tell the people you know and love that you have cancer…but here we are. I’ve been diagnosed with stage 2 Triple Negative Breast Cancer," Parks penned.
Following her diagnosis, Parks experienced a series of medical appointments and emotional challenges. "Since my diagnosis it has been non-stop tests, doctor’s appointments, and mental rollercoasters. However, working closely with my doctors I feel confident and at ease with the treatment plan I am currently undergoing," she continued.
Parks acknowledged that the upcoming months will present significant challenges during her medical care. "The next year is going to be difficult, and that’s to say the least. But knowing that I WILL be okay and will come out on the other side kicking cancers a** has me currently at peace and ready for the ride," she added.
She also expressed gratitude for the support system around her during her recovery. "I am beyond grateful for the love and strength my family, friends and community have shown me thus far. I don’t know where I would be without each and every one of you picking me up when at times I feel dragged down. But I know that I’ll get through this, and I am truly thankful for the overwhelming support and prayers coming my way!" Parks wrote.
GoFundMe Campaign and Financial Support
Following the diagnosis, her Glee co-star Heather Morris established a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for medical bills and living costs. The fundraising page has raised $37,369 toward its total target goal of $50,000.
Morris detailed Parks' professional work and current health challenges on the donation page. "Brittany is a magnificent, lively, and loving person with an infectious laugh and spritely soul. On March 31st, Brittany received the news that she has triple negative breast cancer," Morris wrote.
Outside of her television role, Parks works internationally as an instructor and theatrical performer. "As we all know, she travels the world teaching tap students and sharing her gift with hundreds of tap dancers. When she’s not teaching, she’s workshopping on major NYC Broadway shows like Shuffle Along and 42nd Street," Morris noted.
Because the cancer treatment affects her immune system, Parks faces limitations on her ability to travel and work. "Given that BP is now immune compromised, it makes it increasingly difficult for her to continue working and traveling as she did before," Morris wrote.
Morris urged supporters to contribute to help ease the financial impact of the illness during treatment. "Brittany now needs your help as she embarks on her fight against triple negative breast cancer! Together, let us carry her through as she navigates the trials of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Help lift the financial burden she may feel during one of the toughest times yet. Brittany has been the backbone to many of our own hard times... now is the time to pay it forward," she penned.
All funds collected through the campaign are designated for Parks' direct living and medical costs. "All funds raised will go directly to Brittany's rent, daily living expenses, food, and medical co-pays. Your support will give her the time and peace she needs to focus on healing and fighting her illness, without the added burden of financial worries. Please help her continue to spread her love and positivity to the world. Your kindness and generosity will make a real difference in her journey," Morris added.
Messages of Support From Co-Stars
Several of Parks' former castmates left messages of encouragement in the comments section of her Instagram announcement. Morris offered a personal message of solidarity to her friend.
"My queen. You’re the strongest b***h I know. Stronger than this diagnosis. I love you so deep it hurts and I got you like you had me at my toughest. Forever and beyond," Morris wrote.
Glee actor Kevin McHale also commented to offer his support. "You are the strongest and most powerful among us. This is another, albeit hard, chapter of a long beautiful story. Love you so stupidly much it hurts. We got you," McHale wrote.
Actor Alex Newell joined in sending love to Parks following her post. "Every ounce of my love to the strongest, bravest and purest heart and soul that is you!!!" Newell wrote.
Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Triple negative breast cancer is a specific form of the disease that lacks receptors for oestrogen, progesterone, and the HER2 protein. Because the tumour lacks these receptors, standard hormonal or protein therapies are ineffective, making treatment more complex.
This form of cancer accounts for approximately 10 to 20 percent of all breast cancer cases. It tends to be more aggressive than other breast tumours and carries a worse overall prognosis for patients.
The condition occurs more frequently in individuals under the age of 40 and in Black women. Medical professionals diagnose the disease by taking a sample of the cancerous cells.
Symptoms of triple negative breast cancer mirror those of other breast cancer types. Common indicators include a lump or thickening in the breast, alterations in breast size, shape, or feel, skin dimpling, changes to the nipple shape, a rash or blood-stained nipple discharge, and swelling in the armpit.
Treatment plans typically involve a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy may be administered prior to surgery to shrink the tumour, or following the operation to prevent the disease from returning.
