Disney Star Christy Carlson Romano Urges Cancer Screenings

Christy Carlson Romano is transforming her fear into action, using her platform to remind fans why cancer screenings save lives.

The 41-year-old actress, best known for "Even Stevens" and voicing Kim Possible, shared emotional news this week: her recent cancer screening came back with concerning results. While her husband Brendan Rooney received clear results, Romano now awaits a PET scan to learn more about what doctors found.

Romano's decision to get screened wasn't random. Both of her parents battled cancer. Her mother survived, but her father didn't. Her maternal grandmother also died from lung cancer, creating a family history that made testing feel urgent.

"Cancer is everywhere, which is why I got this test," Romano explained in a tearful Instagram video. The mother of two daughters, ages 7 and 9, said she refuses to ignore warning signs. "I'm sure people think I'm overreacting, but I'm not, because cancer is pretty serious, and I have two little girls."

Romano is currently navigating insurance hurdles to get her PET scan covered, a frustrating reality many patients face during already stressful times. She's leaning on faith while waiting for definitive answers, describing this period as being "in God's hands."

The actress almost didn't share her story publicly. She worried about appearing "cringe" or dramatic. But she decided her platform could do something more important: inspire others to get screened early.

Why This Inspires

Romano's vulnerability is creating real impact. By sharing her story before knowing the outcome, she's normalizing the fear that comes with health scares while emphasizing the importance of early detection. Her honesty about insurance struggles highlights barriers many face in accessing crucial healthcare.

The actress mentioned the recent loss of James Van Der Beek, who died at 48 from colorectal cancer. His death hit close to home since both lived in Austin, Texas, where Van Der Beek was known for his charity work and community presence.

Romano is keeping busy while she waits, focusing on a recently filmed movie and her upcoming memoir. Her message remains clear: don't wait to get screened, and don't let fear stop you from seeking answers.

Early detection continues to be the most powerful tool we have against cancer, and voices like Romano's remind us that checking in on our health is never an overreaction.