Why Did Rene Syler, Formerly of the CBS Early Show, Chose Double Mastectomy Even Though There Was No Cancer?

Rene Syler was a co-anchor on the CBS morning program "The Early Show". She had been there for four years when she was told she would be terminated Dec. 22, 2006. At the same time, she announced she would undergo a double mastectomy (having both of her breasts removed). We later found out they (her breasts) were not cancerous even though both of Rene's parents had breast cancer and that makes her very suceptible to the disease.

Rene cited preventive measure as the reason for her dicision to have her breasts removed. Also every year, she had had to have a biopsy done after each mamogram and she felt that was too much trouble.

Do you agree with Ms. Syler's dicision? If you're a woman, what would you have done in a similar circumstance? If you're a man, what would you have done/said if the woman of your life were in the same situation?

To be honest with you, I have no idea what I would do in that situation. I wouldn't know until I was faced with it. I think I'd want to avoid a mastectomy for as long as possible, let alone a double mastectomy. But if she felt it was inevitable, I can't say I blame her.

It really depends on a woman's attitude toward her breasts. I love mine, and I take great pride in them (big and natural!), but a lot of women hate theirs. So, for her, it may not have been a curse, but a blessing to get rid of them. It's her body, and if losing her breasts gives her the peace of mind she needs, I'd support her.