Disney Channel alum Christy Carlson Romano confessed the new fears she has about her health following a recent cancer screening that came back positive.
In a video shared on Instagram, the “Even Stevens” star became visibly emotional, crying at times, as she provided fans with a major life update. She revealed that she and her husband, Brendan Rooney, agreed to undergo the cancer screenings together as a precaution, especially given her family’s history with the disease.
Both of her parents were diagnosed with cancer, Romano explained. And while her mother ultimately “beat it,” she said her father “eventually didn’t,” adding that her maternal grandmother also died of lung cancer.
“My husband’s came back completely negative,” she said of the results. “Mine did not come back negative.”
Next, the actress and “Vulnerable” podcast host will have to undergo a PET scan, an imaging test that further checks for signs of cancer, in addition to heart disease and brain disorders.
“I’m sure people think I’m overreacting,” she said through tears. “But I’m not, because cancer is pretty serious. Man, I have two little girls.”
Romano also reflected on the recent loss of fellow actor James Van Der Beek, who had colorectal cancer. He died earlier this month at the age of 48.
“I live in Austin, and I was able to meet James Van Der Beek a bunch,” she said.
“His family’s amazing. He’s a pillar of our community in Texas,” she continued. “They always were raising money for the most amazing charities, and he’s not with us anymore. Cancer is everywhere. Which is why I got this test.”
Romano also said she would “keep fighting for answers,” and shouted out her “loving family” for their ongoing support.
In the caption, the 41-year-old actress admitted she was initially hesitant to share her news, but she decided to anyway with the hopes that others will get early screenings and tests.
