(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jennifer Aniston has discussed the "lovely" cancer survivor who moved her to tears.

The 42-year-old actress visited the Inova Breast Care Institute near Washington D.C. earlier this month. A woman who overcame breast cancer made a deep impact on the star.

"The woman was so lovely," Jennifer gushed to OK! magazine.

Jennifer is normally not prone to exhibiting so much emotion in public. A close friend of the star says that Jennifer's experience at Inova was extremely poignant.

"The side of herself that Jen rarely shows to the public is this personal, vulnerable side. Jen's not a public crier, but at Inova she was clearly moved to tears because she cares so deeply," an insider told OK!

"This trip affected her more than anything has in a long time."

Jennifer's friend does not just attribute the actress' bawl to breast cancer awareness. Jennifer's strong relationship with Justin is thought to have provided the star with much encouragement.

"Being in love plays into it," her friend explained. "Her emotional guard is down right now. Justin gives her the emotional support to be more open in public."

Jennifer and Justin are currently residing in New York City together. They have been dating since May of this year. (C) Cover Media