(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Wanda Sykes pondered on her "best odds" for recovery before deciding to have a mastectomy.

Wanda was diagnosed with DCIS, a type of breast cancer, in February this year. The malignancy was surgically removed in August. The 47-year-old actress and comedienne committed to having her breasts removed after being informed of her illness.

Wanda's decisiveness was fuelled by her joie de vivre.

"I just wanted the best odds," Wanda told People. "I made my decision because I love life."

The actress admits that it was not an easy diagnosis to get to grips with. Wanda simply could not be convinced the situation was really happening.

"My first thought was, 'Really? Me, breast cancer?' I just couldn't believe it," Wanda. "But I knew this was doable."

Recuperation from the bilateral mastectomy was equally arduous.

"I was miserable. Every day I had to change the bandages and look at it, and it was not pretty at all," Wanda recalled. "I just wanted my life back."

Wanda was back on her feet in September, when she began a stand-up comedy tour. The support that she receives from her partner Alex and their two-year-old twins Olivia and Lucas keeps her in a positive frame of mind.

"We never hid anything from the kids. They were a huge part of my decision because I wanted to be around for them," Wanda said. "I feel whole again, I really do. I've told them, 'Mommy's boo-boo is much better now.' "

Wanda will be performing shows across America for the duration of the year. (C) Cover Media