Preparing to go under the knife is always a daunting task, even when doctors have reassured you that it is a very simple and common procedure.
And celebrities are no stranger to this feeling, with some of the biggest names in showbiz sharing their concerns after going in for surgery. But one Hollywood legend took her concerns to the next level when she taped a letter to her stomach addressed to the surgeon before she was given anaesthetic.
Movie legend Marilyn Monroe certainly didn’t want to take any chances when she went into the surgery room more than 70 years ago. The blonde bombshell, who died when she was 36, used quite an unorthodox method to remind her surgeon of her wishes.
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The star found out she needed to have her appendix removed back in 1952, and as you can imagine she was quite concerned about how she would heal after it. Even though she took a break from work to recover, Marilyn was still worried about scarring given how important her image was to her career.
(Image: Michael Ochs Archives)
She was admitted to the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in the heart of Los Anges back in April 1952 under the care of Dr Marcus Rabwin. According to reports, as the surgeon prepared for the routine operation, he peeled back her down to find her note taped to her stomach.
The letter explained that she was extremely “thankful” towards him for all of the hard work he was putting in, but made sure to voice her concerns about the operation. It reportedly read: “Dear Dr Rabwin, cut as little as possible.
“I know it seems vain, but that doesn’t really enter in to it. The fact I’m a woman is important and means much to me. Save please (can’t ask enough) what you can – I’m in your hands.
(Image: Michael Ochs Archives)
“You have children and you must know what it means – please Dr Rabwin – I know somehow you will! Thank you – thank you – thank you – For God’s sake Dear Doctor no ovaries removed – please, again, do whatever you can to prevent large scars.
“Thanking you with all my heart,” she concluded. Many fans of the legendary movie star believe that the note spelled out her desperate longing to start a family – despite her rumoured battle with endometriosis.
She is reported to have suffered from the crippling condition which the NHS defines as a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Some of the most gruelling symptoms include painful, heavy periods, fatigue and fertility issues.
(Image: Getty Images)
There was little known knowledge of the disease at the time meaning there was even less in terms of treatment options. This mean that the only route of medical intervention would likely have been the removal of the ovaries.
This is why fans believe Marylin penned the heartbreaking note which she taped to her stomach. The star shared her fears that the medic may remove them while she was knocked out, which would have completely removed her chances of having children.
However, Dr Rabwin obeyed her strict orders and was very successful. This may explain why the star looked so good when she came round after the operation.
(Image: Corbis via Getty Images)
Marilyn was photographed looking like a million dollars as she laid in her hospital bed browsing through the hordes of get well soon cards she received from fans. Sadly, her dream of becoming a mother never came true.
The icon tragically suffered at least four miscarriages between 1956 and 1962, as well as an ectopic pregnancy in 1958.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
