On February 4, World Cancer Day, renowned Italian model Bianca Balti shared her poignant reflections on her battle with ovarian cancer, emphasizing the importance of prevention and awareness. For Balti, this date has taken on new significance as she confronts her diagnosis and the series of challenges it has presented.
Bianca Balti, known for her stunning looks and successful career, found herself grappling with cancer on September 8, 2024, when she learned she had stage three ovarian cancer. Despite her family's history with the disease—including the loss of her aunt to metastatic breast cancer at only 39 years of age and her mother’s battle with multiple myeloma—Balti shared how cancer was not previously on her mind. "The cancer could not inhabit my thoughts, let alone my body," she remarked, reflecting on her harrowing experiences.
Her reflections came during her treatment for cancer, having begun chemotherapy on October 14, 2024, and concluding her sessions on January 27, 2025. Balti announced this significant milestone on her Instagram, where she often chronicles her life and challenges with heartfelt posts. “With my great surprise, I felt alive like never before,” she wrote, illustrating the transformation her health struggle has catalyzed.
Throughout her treatment, Balti documented her experiences—sharing intimate moments such as her daughter Matilde shaving her head on Halloween night, which she humorously recalled: "I thought I'd take the opportunity to dress up as Uncle Fester; little did I know my small razor would take hours!" This snapshot of her life became not only therapeutic for her but also served as powerful encouragement for others facing similar struggles.
Bianca's path to self-discovery began after undergoing genetic testing due to her family's cancer background. The testing revealed she was a carrier of the BRCA1 gene mutation, which led her to opt for preventative double mastectomy in December 2022, well before her ovarian cancer diagnosis. She shared these details candidly, saying, "I felt it like a death sentence" when she received her diagnosis.
Despite the grim news, Balti's perspective shifted during her chemotherapy treatments. She expressed how these months of battling cancer became enlightening: "It was hard and it's not all over yet, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Everything started to taste like real blessings," she stated, indicating how each hardship contributed to her growing appreciation for life.
Her resilience and strength are underscored by her commitment to raise awareness on World Cancer Day. During this time, Balti highlighted the significance of preventative measures, encouraging women to be proactive about their health. This message resonates strongly within the Italian healthcare community, particularly emphasized by Saverio Cinieri, President of the Italian Association of Medical Oncology, who praised Balti’s willingness to share her story and promote cancer prevention.
Brought to her knees by her diagnosis, the experience opened new avenues for Balti to appreciate life. She stated, "What does not kill you makes you stronger, but my experience is such: what did not kill me made me love life much more." This transformative perspective not only encapsulates her struggle but pushes it beyond mere survival to thriving amid adversity.
Looking forward, Balti is set to co-host the Sanremo Festival alongside Carlo Conti, which marks another step for her not just professionally, but personally. Her presence on stage will resonate deeply with audiences who are reminded of her story and the strength she embodies.
Bianca Balti's story is one of perseverance, strength, and the indomitable spirit to rise above challenges. On this World Cancer Day, her message serves as both inspiration and reminder: to never take life for granted and always find strength amid pain.