Real Housewives of Atlanta Star Monyetta Shaw-Carter Shares Battle with Breast Cancer
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Monyetta Shaw-Carter, a prominent figure in the reality TV show “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” recently opened up about her courageous fight against breast cancer in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine. The 45-year-old reality star revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma in November 2024, which led her to undergo a lumpectomy and subsequent radiation treatment. Sarah Jones, a Senior Reporter at PEOPLE who joined the team in 2025, provided exclusive insights into Shaw-Carter’s journey.
Shaw-Carter reflected on her health scare, mentioning that a previous benign biopsy ten years ago had lulled her into a false sense of security. However, during a self-check in September of last year, she noticed a peculiar sensation in her left breast that prompted her to seek medical attention. A routine mammogram revealed a lump, ultimately leading to her cancer diagnosis. Following the lumpectomy in January and 16 rounds of radiation completed on May 2, Shaw-Carter expressed gratitude for the early detection that significantly increased her chances of recovery and survival.
The reality star emphasised the importance of regular health check-ups and trusting one’s instincts when it comes to potential health concerns. Facing the daunting news of her diagnosis, she described the initial shock, fear, and anger she experienced. Despite the emotional turmoil, Shaw-Carter drew strength from her family, particularly her husband Heath Carter and ex-partner NE-YO, with whom she co-parents two children. Their unwavering support and encouragement played a critical role in her journey towards healing.
In a show of resilience and advocacy, Shaw-Carter is determined to raise awareness about breast cancer and the significance of early detection. For her upcoming 45th birthday celebration on May 31, she plans to host a themed party where guests are encouraged to wear pink, the colour associated with breast cancer awareness. This symbolic gesture underscores her triumph over the disease and her commitment to spreading vital health messages within her community and beyond.
Throughout her ordeal, Shaw-Carter found solace in the solidarity and compassion of her fellow “Real Housewives of Atlanta” castmates, notably Kandi Burruss, Porsha Williams, Cynthia Bailey, Shamea Morton, and Sheree Whitfield. Their outpouring of support, ranging from heartfelt gestures to meaningful conversations, underscored the strength of their bond and highlighted the importance of standing together during times of adversity.
In sharing her story, Shaw-Carter hopes to inspire others to listen to their bodies, advocate for their health, and prioritise regular screenings. By leveraging her platform and personal journey, she aims to empower individuals to be proactive about their well-being and to cultivate a sense of community support. Her resilience in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of hope and courage for those navigating similar challenges, highlighting the transformative power of vulnerability and shared experiences.
As Shaw-Carter embarks on the next chapter of her life post-treatment, she embodies grace, strength, and determination in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of resilience, self-care, and the unwavering support of loved ones during life’s most trying moments. By shedding light on her battle with breast cancer, Shaw-Carter not only honours her journey but also ignites a powerful conversation around health, healing, and the enduring spirit of survival.