US Weekly Cover: Christina Applegate Cancer at 36

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While Christina Applegate's announcement that she's battling an early form of breast cancer shocked her legions of fans, insiders say that the Samantha Who? star, 36, is handling the diagnosis with fortitude. "She is doing amazing and can fight any challenge life throws at her," pal Lance Bass said.

Actor Barry Watson agrees: "I know Christina really well, and I know she will get through this with a positive attitude and a great sense of humor."

With a family history of the disease (mom Priddy had a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery when Applegate was 7-years-old and later underwent a hysterectomy), the actress is well equipped to cope. "This diagnosis is a positive reinforcement of the importance of being vigilant with one's health," says Diana Rowden, the VP of health sciences at the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation, which Applegate has long supported.

Applegate's battle is her second struggle in weeks, as she's still grieving over the untimely death of ex-boyfriend Lee Grivas, who was found dead from an apparent drug overdose July 1.

Nevertheless, while the actress is one of 8,000 women under 40 who are diagnosed with breast cancer annually, friends, family, and supporters are rallying to her side and she's expected to fully recover.

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