Marlyne Barrett, the American actress celebrated for her role as Maggie Lockwood in "Chicago Med," experienced a notable body transformation that sparked concern and curiosity among her fans. This article delves into the story behind Marlyne Barrett's weight loss, exploring the factors that contributed to her changing appearance and highlighting her inspiring resilience in the face of adversity.
Who Is Marlyne Barrett?
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Marlyne Barrett is a distinguished actress in film and television. She began her on-screen career with the short film "Angelique" in 1999. Before landing her first leading role in the romantic comedy "Love, Sex and Eating the Bones" in 2003, she made appearances in various direct-to-DVD movies and made-for-television shows.
Since then, Marlyne Barrett has appeared in films such as "Hitch," "Law and Order," "Off the Black," "Night Call," and "Good Fences." From 2006 to 2008, she had recurring roles as Nerese Campbell in the crime drama "The Wire" and as Felicia Marquand in the legal drama "Damages." However, it was her role as Maggie Lockwood in the popular medical series "Chicago Med" that catapulted her to stardom.
The Diagnosis: Uterine and Ovarian Cancer
After portraying a breast cancer storyline for three years on "Chicago Med," Marlyne Barrett revealed on September 27, 2022, that she had been diagnosed with uterine and ovarian cancer. Despite having no family history of these cancers, doctors discovered a large tumor on her left ovary and uterus in July 2022.
Barrett's battle began in the summer of 2022 after she fell ill following a hernia operation in April. The surgery led to fluid accumulation in her abdomen and shortness of breath. When doctors informed her of the mass on her ovary and uterus, she was shocked and questioned her life expectancy. The recommended treatment plan included a hysterectomy followed by aggressive chemotherapy.
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Understanding the potential psychological impact of hair loss, a common side effect of chemotherapy, Barrett chose to shave her head in front of her husband and children. She also received support from the "Chicago Med" cast and crew, some of whom shaved their heads in solidarity. Despite her health challenges, Barrett continued to work on the show, managing her energy levels with naps and strategic leaves.
The Connection Between Cancer and Weight Loss
Marlyne Barrett's weight loss became apparent to viewers during the eighth season of "Chicago Med." The primary factor behind this change was her battle with uterine and ovarian cancer, which necessitated chemotherapy treatments.
Chemotherapy can cause appetite and weight changes in patients. Some individuals experience decreased appetite or a feeling of fullness, which can lead to inadequate nutrition, weight loss, and muscle weakness. Ovarian cancer itself can also cause symptoms such as constipation, upset stomach, bloating, heartburn, and unexplained weight loss.
During her treatment, Marlyne Barrett lost approximately 20 pounds, going from 159 pounds to 139 pounds. This significant change in her physique sparked conversations and concern among her fans on social media.
Diet and Lifestyle During Treatment
While undergoing chemotherapy and battling cancer, Marlyne Barrett prioritized a healthy diet and remained as active as possible. Her weight loss was not the result of a strict diet plan or fitness regimen but rather a consequence of her medical condition and treatment.
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Barrett focused on consuming plenty of liquids, such as water and vegetable juices, to help cleanse her system. She also ate simple, nutritious foods like brown rice, fresh vegetables, fruits, salads, and fish. She avoided red meat, as studies suggest that consuming red and processed meats may increase the risk of various cancers. Barrett ate her largest meal at lunch with her husband and avoided heavy meals after 7:30 PM.
In addition to her diet, Barrett maintained a light fitness routine that included walking on the treadmill, hiking, and practicing Pilates. Pilates helped her expand her lungs and retrain her breathing. She practiced Pilates four to five times a week, alternating with cardio sessions. She also incorporated two massage sessions each week to relax her muscles and tendons, reduce muscle tension, increase blood flow, and improve her overall mood.
Marlyne Barrett's Before and After Photos
Marlyne Barrett's physical transformation was evident in her before and after photos. The side effects of chemotherapy, including hair loss and changes in weight and appetite, significantly altered her appearance. Despite these changes, she faced her challenges with courage and determination.
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