Ruth Ann Swenson, Opera Star, Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Ruth Ann Swenson, a 43-year old star of the Metropolitan Opera, has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She has had surgery and will soon take chemotherapy, just in case any cancer cells are still present. Swenson says that her prognosis is excellent and that "I look forward to returning to the Met in the spring." She has sung many of opera's leading roles on stages all over the world.

• Seattle PI Story on Swenson
• Metropolitan Opera biography of Swenson
• EMI Classics biography of Swenson