Danielle Fishel, known for her iconic role as Topanga on Boy Meets World, has shared some personal news with her fans. The 43-year-old actress recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer, specifically a type known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Danielle chose to open up about her diagnosis on her podcast, Pod Meets World, which she co-hosts with her former Boy Meets World co-stars, Rider Strong and Will Friedle. The podcast, which has become a platform for nostalgic discussions and personal reflections, served as the perfect space for Danielle to share this significant life update.
She began the episode by addressing her listeners directly, saying, “I would like to share something with our listeners, something that Rider and Will were two of the first people I told the news to. I was recently diagnosed with DCIS, which stands for ductal carcinoma in situ, which is a form of breast cancer. It is very, very, very early. It’s technically stage zero. To be specific, just because I like too much information all the time, I was diagnosed with high-grade DCIS with micro-invasion.”
Danielle’s tone was reassuring as she explained her condition, emphasizing that her cancer was caught in its earliest stage, giving her a highly favorable prognosis. “I’m going to be fine. I’m having surgery to remove it. I’m going to be on some follow-up treatment. I’ve had to make a lot of decisions over the last couple of days,” she continued, highlighting the proactive steps she’s taking in her treatment journey.
One of the key messages Danielle wanted to convey was the importance of regular screenings. She credited her early diagnosis to not delaying her yearly mammogram. “The only reason I caught this cancer when it is still stage zero is because the day I got my text message that my yearly mammogram had come up, I made the appointment,” she shared. “They found it so, so, so early that I’m going to be fine. I hope it will encourage anyone to get in there.”
Danielle’s message was clear: early detection can make all the difference. She urged her listeners to prioritize their health and not to delay potentially life-saving screenings. “If you have to find out you have cancer, find out at stage zero if possible,” she advised, hoping her experience would serve as a wake-up call for others.
Her co-hosts were quick to offer their support. Rider Strong shared a personal connection, noting the prevalence of breast cancer among people he knows. “Right now, my wife and I know four people — four friends — who are dealing with breast cancer,” he said, underscoring the commonality of the disease and the importance of awareness.
Will Friedle added a comforting note, expressing his relief that Danielle sought medical attention when she did. “We’re so glad you didn’t [put it off] because you are going to be fine. You might have some sucky days, but we’re here for you,” he assured her, reflecting the bond and support that exists between the longtime friends.
For those unfamiliar with DCIS, Danielle also took a moment to explain the condition. Drawing from the Mayo Clinic’s definition, she shared, “Ductal carcinoma in situ is a very early form of breast cancer. In ductal carcinoma in situ, the cancer cells are confined inside a milk duct in the breast. The cancer cells haven’t spread into the breast tissue. Ductal carcinoma in situ is often shortened to DCIS. It’s sometimes called noninvasive, preinvasive or stage 0 breast cancer.”
As Danielle prepares for surgery and the follow-up treatment ahead, her fans, friends, and co-hosts stand by her side, offering love and support. Through her openness, Danielle is not only facing her diagnosis head-on but also encouraging others to take charge of their health.
We wish Danielle all the best as she undergoes surgery and treatment.
