“Saturday Night Live” alum Cheri Oteri spoke about undergoing breast cancer surgery and the meaningful support she received from former first lady Jill Biden during her diagnosis.
On a recent episode of the Dear Chelsea podcast, the comedian recalled meeting Biden at a Milken Institute dinner in April after he was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a type of early-stage cancer.
“I was sitting there, quiet, and I thought, this is so serendipitous,” she told host Chelsea Handler about the event, which discussed women’s health issues and research.
“And as I was listening to all the women, Jill came up to me at the end, and as we were saying goodbye, I told her I had just been diagnosed, and she said, ‘When is the surgery?’ And I said, ‘The 26th,'” Oteri, 63, recalled.
“And she says, “Okay, you’re going to get tired of me.” And she says, “I’m going to get through this with you.” This woman, before my surgery and after my surgery, says, “I’m with you on this.” I was shocked. ”
The “Scary Movie” star also described Biden, 75, as “a woman with a big heart.”
“She always seems to be checking on me and is just a beautiful human being,” Oteri said. “So I’ve never felt more supported by my friends and girlfriend.”
The actress also gave an update on her condition after undergoing a second surgery to remove a tumor just days before appearing on the podcast, saying she was feeling “very well” and “everything is normal and fine.”
The Mayo Clinic defines a lumpectomy as “a surgery that removes some tissue from the breast. The surgery is most commonly used to treat breast cancer.”
Oteri said she “caught” her cancer early and urged listeners to get mammograms.
The Southland Tales star also insisted that women “get a second opinion,” explaining that her first doctor recommended unnecessary and “aggressive” treatment.
In April, Oteri gave fans an inside look at the Milken Institute dinner, along with a group photo with Biden.
Another photo showed her posing on a motorcycle while surrounded by police officers.
“Amazing dinner with Dr. Jill Biden and the powerful team at @milkeninstitute,” Oteri captioned the photo.
“We talked about women’s health issues, opportunities, barriers, and research advances. It was very inspiring,” Oteri added. “I also got to play with Dr. Biden’s security guard!! 🚨”
