Morgan Wade Opens Up About Family Cancer Trauma After Double Mastectomy

Morgan Wade opens up about her recent preventative double mastectomy, a decision rooted in a family history haunted by the shadows of cancer. 

According to reports, close pal and rumored romantic interest, "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Kyle Richards, helped the country singer with the necessary procedure under the best medical care. 

The singer, who lost both her grandmother and great-aunt to pancreatic cancer and had an aunt diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, decided to take control of her health after a cousin tested positive for the RAD51D gene mutation. 

This result was a source of concern as it elevated her risk to 20 to 40 percent for breast cancer. Choosing the path of prevention, Wade, with the encouragement of her mother, Robin, opted for genetic testing and received a positive result.

On November 18, she underwent a four-hour surgery, not only embracing a double mastectomy but also undergoing reconstructive surgery. Despite knowing the gravity of her choice, Wade admitted to feeling nervous as the surgery date approached.

Drawing strength from her mother, who had undergone a similar procedure and a pre-dawn workout ritual, she faced the surgery with resolve.

Speaking to PEOPLE, the 28-year-old shared her journey, made possible with the assistance of the nonprofit Mission Plasticos.

"I'm finally able to put a hoodie on! That's nice because it was button-up shirts and anything that could zip for a minute," she exclaimed, highlighting the small joys of recovery amid challenging times. 

At the same time, Wade faced enforced downtime post-surgery, a struggle for someone accustomed to an active and physically fit lifestyle. Yet, for her, it was a worthwhile sacrifice, offering a future free from the shadow of breast cancer that lingered in her family.

Wade reflected on her decision: "Life is short, life is precious, and I'm grateful for the advances in science that we have the knowledge to be able to go and take care of these things."

Richards, who played a pivotal role in Wade's journey, did so by connecting her with the organization where she found support and skilled surgeons like Dr. Heather MacDonald and Dr. Karen Leong. 

After making headlines following her divorce announcement from husband Mauricio Umansky, Richards found herself linked to the country singer sensation. 

The Blast reported that observers tried to decipher the details of their relationship, especially after being fueled by the TV personality's cameo in Wade's music video for the new single, "Fall In Love With Me."

The teaser both Richards and Wade shared on Instagram showcased the reported pals exchanging glances and sly nods. The 54-year-old could also be seen wearing a visor while working out and giving the songwriter a nod. 

They also shared meaningful looks during other activities. The caption of the teaser described it as "campy and fun" yet also "important and representative of all kinds of love in the country space."

As social media erupted with opinions, fans expressed surprise and admiration for her unexpected presence in a country music context, like this supporter who gushed, "LIKE THE AMOINT OF TIMES IVE SEEN THIS VIDEO BC I CANT BELIEVE ITS KYLE RICHARDS." 

Another pointed out that the actress was aware of the attention but chose to ignore it. "Kyle Richards victorious in the idgaf war," the viewer wrote. 

Amid the chatter, Richards' ex-husband supported her and the "Psychopath" singer, commenting with fire emojis. Umansky later went further to show his positive feelings towards his ex-wife and Wade by taking a moment to address their friendship. 

He put fans' minds to rest by stating, "I love her. Yeah, she's great," emphasizing the amicable nature of their relationship despite the separation. The former pair, who announced their separation earlier in the summer, have continued to demonstrate a positive public dynamic towards each other.