Olivia Munn has been open about her cancer journey. (photo courtesy of Getty Images for Women’s Cancer Research Fund)

Actress and activist Olivia Munn received the Courage Award at the Women’s Cancer Research Fund’s “An Unforgettable Evening” benefit at the Beverly Hilton on April 28. Munn was given the award for selflessly sharing her ongoing breast cancer journey and, in doing so, inspiring countless women to take their health into their own hands and get screened for breast cancer.

Describing her cancer diagnosis, Munn said, “Courage in those first days after my breast cancer diagnosis meant letting myself be afraid, being afraid and walking into the void regardless, step by step. The first step I had to take was to walk out of the office and call my husband … As I struggled to say these words, John just said, ‘Come home.’”

Munn publicly shared her cancer journey in March 2024 and brought attention to the Tyrer-Cuzick Breast Cancer Risk Assessment test, which was developed by BCRF researcher Dr. Jack Cuzick, and looks at family history in-depth.

“This one test led to my diagnosis of bilateral breast cancer, and it saved my life,” said Munn.

Munn then devoted the rest of her speech to her medical team.

“I’d like to especially and eternally thank some very special guests who are with us tonight: the team of doctors who saved my life,” she said, recognizing her oncologist, oncological surgeon, reconstructive surgeon, as well as the fertility doctor who helped with the birth of her daughter through surrogacy last September.

Munn has since undergone five surgeries, including a lymph node dissection, a double mastectomy and a hysterectomy.

“I don’t wish this journey on anyone; but if you have to face cancer, I pray you meet the kind of doctors that I did,” she said. “The nurses, the hospital administrators, everyone along the way here showed me kindness in those scary days.”

For information, visit wcrfcure.org.