Actress Nicole Eggert, known for her role on "Baywatch," candidly discussed the subtle signs she missed before her stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis in December 2023. Initially attributing her symptoms to menopause, the 52-year-old shared her experience with Fox News Digital, highlighting the importance of self-exams and the unwavering love for her children that fuels her fight.

Despite diligently undergoing annual mammograms and ultrasounds, Eggert's dense breast tissue masked the growing tumor. One overlooked clue was a persistent change in her bra size, which she dismissed as normal breast fluctuation. In reality, the increasing mass was altering her breast shape. Another sign was significant, unexplained weight gain, later attributed to estrogen levels associated with her specific type of breast cancer, cribriform carcinoma.

The final warning sign was a throbbing sensation in her breast, leading her to perform a self-exam and discover the tumor. Eggert expressed regret for not conducting self-exams regularly, emphasizing their crucial role in early detection. Studies show that a significant percentage of breast cancer diagnoses are made through self-discovery.

Since her diagnosis, Eggert has undergone a mastectomy, completed chemotherapy, and begun radiation therapy. She recently shared her experience of receiving small tattoos during a CT scan for radiation mapping, a poignant reminder of her ongoing journey. Eggert also faces a second mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and the decision between a hysterotomy or hormone therapy.

Eggert has found strength in educating herself about her cancer and treatments, actively seeking ways to support her body's healing. However, her greatest motivation comes from her daughters, Dilyn, 25, and Keegan, 12. The love for her children fuels her determination to fight and overcome this challenging chapter in her life. Eggert strives to protect Keegan from the harsher realities of her treatment, finding solace in her daughter's unwavering positivity and support.