Giuliana Rancic's brave battle continues.
After announcing a breast cancer diagnosis in October, the E! News host and reality star announced Monday that she will undergo a double mastectomy and immediate reconstruction.
Rancic, 37, broke the news in a statement to E! News and with a live appearance on The Today Show with husband Bill Rancic at her side.
She explained to E! why she wanted to share the difficult news with the world.
"First, I would like to take the stigma away. 'Mastectomy' the word seemed so scary to me at first. After doing research and seeing the advancements, the surgery has come a long way from 20 years ago. The results can be incredible," Rancic said.
"Not only can it save your life, but you can come out feeling healthier and with a positive self-image…Second, I want to encourage everyone to be proactive with their health and get checked out."
Following her October announcement (she first discovered the cancer in August), Rancic underwent a lumpectomy and radiation treatments.
"I want to make sure to thank everyone and give them an update for being so kind and loving and supportive," she explained.
The decision was not one she reached easily; Rancic consulted with "top doctors, radiologists, women who've had mastectomies and women who've opted for alternative treatments, like lumpectomies, radiation and anti-estrogen therapy."
Her biggest supporter of all has been husband Bill, 40.
"Bill told me, 'I don't care about the physical results,'" she said. "I just want you around for another 50 years. I need you healthy. I need you as my wife. I need you as a mother to our kids.'"
With surgery scheduled for next week, Rancic already has plans for her big comeback. "I hope for a full recovery by New Year's Eve. We're planning to be in Times Square!" she said.
