On Tuesday actress Angelina Jolie revealed that she underwent a preventative double mastectomy after she discovered that she carried a mutated version of the gene BRCA,1 which put her at high risk for breast cancer.

The mother of six wrote an op-ed piece for The New York Times in which she explained how she underwent the series of surgeries because of her high risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Jolie credited Brad Pitt, 49 for helping her get through such a trying time in her life.

"I am fortunate to have a partner, Brad Pitt, who is so loving and supportive," Jolie, 37, wrote.

"So to anyone who has a wife or girlfriend going through this, know that you are a very important part of the transition."

The actress admitted that having Pitt by her side made her painful experience of having her breasts removed bearable. "Brad was at the Pink Lotus Breast Center, where I was treated, for every minute of the surgeries."

The Academy Award winning actress explained, "I made a decision to have a preventive double mastectomy. I started with the breasts, as my risk of breast cancer is higher than my risk of ovarian cancer, and the surgery is more complex."

"During that time I have been able to keep this private and to carry on with my work."

"But I am writing about it now because I hope that other women can benefit from my experience. Cancer is still a word that strikes fear into people's hearts, producing a deep sense of powerlessness. "

"I wanted to write this to tell other women that the decision to have a mastectomy was not easy. But it is one I am very happy that I made. My chances of developing breast cancer have dropped from 87 percent to under 5 percent."

"I can tell my children that they don't need to fear they will lose me to breast cancer. And they know that I love them and will do anything to be with them as long as I can."

"On a personal note, I do not feel any less of a woman. I feel empowered that I made a strong choice that in no way diminishes my femininity."