Maura Tierney speaks out on her health

'Parenthood' delayed as actress undergoes surgery

By Nellie Andreeva

July 13, 2009, 01:40 PM ET

Updated: July 13, 2009, 02:52 PM ET

Actress Maura Tierney on Monday addressed the health issue that led to the shutdown of production of her new NBC series "Parenthood."

"I have discovered a tumor in my breast which requires surgery," Tierney said in a statement. "I will not know either my exact diagnosis or course of treatment until that surgery is performed. My doctors have all assured me this is a very treatable condition. I'm very optimistic as to the outcome and want to thank everyone who has sent positive thoughts and support. I look forward to going back to work soon."

Tierney informed NBC and "Parenthood" producers about the situation last week when the network put production on the series on hold for eight weeks to give the actress time to undergo the necessary medical procedures.

On Friday, the network released a statement, attributing the production shutdown to "medical evaluation that (Tierney) is undergoing," declining to release further details and asking for respect of the actress' privacy.

Tierney on Monday addressed that statement.

"In an effort to guard my privacy, it seems that the wording of NBC's press release has unfortunately caused some confusion and undue alarm about my health," she said.

Maura Tierney speaks out on her health

'Parenthood' delayed as actress undergoes surgery

By Nellie Andreeva

July 13, 2009, 01:40 PM ET

Updated: July 13, 2009, 02:52 PM ET