Brooke Burke Cancer-Free 2014: 'I’m Beginning The Best Part Of My Life'

Brooke Burke: actress, dancer, model, television personality and cancer survivor. The former “Dancing with the Stars” co-host feels stronger than ever following her battle with cancer, she told Shape magazine in an interview for the September issue.

“It’s crazy that not long ago I had cancer and now I’m cancer-free, and that might not be the case if I hadn’t gone for a checkup,” the brunette beauty, 42, told the mag. “Now I feel like I’m beginning the best part of my life.”

She discovered she had thyroid cancer in late 2012, and even announced it during an episode of “DWTS.” Burke said the cancer was discovered during a routine physical, even though she had seen a specialist for Hashimoto’s disease, the most common cause of hypothyroidism, for more than a decade.

“The condition wasn’t even diagnosed by a thyroid doctor but during a regular checkup,” Burke said. “They found a questionable lump. Then I got an ultra-sound and biopsies, and sure enough, it was cancer. But the prognosis was great.”

The entertainer underwent a thyroidectomy and is now cancer-free. “They took it out, it’s gone, and it’s all good,” she said.

Even though discovering one has cancer can be devastating, Burke cautioned people to remain calm. “It’s so important, when you get any alarming news, to do research, get a second opinion and not panic,” she told Shape.

Post-surgery, she has a little scar and made sure to go back to the gym as soon as possible. “I started working out the day I was allowed to. That’s just me. I feel better after my workout for a million reasons,” Burke said.

The actress, who was replaced by Erin Andrews on “DWTS” cautioned women to take care of themselves after 40: Always get your annual physicals and mammograms.”

The September issue of Shape magazine will hit newsstands nationwide and on iPad Aug. 11.

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