Following her recent breast cancer diagnosis, Sarah Ferguson has bravely shared her journey of overcoming the illness and her fresh outlook on life.
The 63-year-old grandmother of three previously revealed that she had successfully undergone surgery for breast cancer and is now on the path to recovery.
Speaking to BBC News, the Duchess’ spokesperson said her surgery was “successful” and she “is receiving the best medical care”, with her doctors expressing their optimism about her prognosis.
The spokesperson also said the Duchess wishes “to express her immense gratitude to all the medical staff who have supported her in recent days.”
“She is also hugely thankful to the staff involved in the mammogram which identified her illness, which was otherwise symptom-free, and believes her experience underlines the importance of regular screening,” the spokesperson said.
As she continues her recovery, Ferguson took to her Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah podcast to discuss the moment she was diagnosed, the impact it had on her family, and her new perspective on life.
“I think it’s scary for any family member out there, you really start to look at your own demise. It’s a wake up call, and you think, how am I going to deal with this?” she said.
“You cannot be complacent with yourself or life or how lucky you are.
‘It’s really important that my father was right: The show must go on.
“But be mindful of each word you say, be gentle with yourself and people, and be very grateful.”
She also used the opportunity to encourage others to prioritise their health and wellbeing.
“We must make people realise, it’s not okay but if you’re going to get it, catch it quick,” she said.
“And go and say, ‘I can do this’. It’s not bravery, it’s not courage, it’s about understanding that you’re not going to feel as you did for a bit, so don’t try to be a superhero.
“Take mini steps, have the cup of tea, trust people. It’s very important not to be complacent with every single thing now.”
According to the Cancer Council, in 2022, more than 20,600 people in Australia were diagnosed with breast cancer, making the disease the second most common cancer in the country with an estimated 1 in 8 females and 1 in 668 males diagnosed by the time they are 85.
Early diagnosis is critical in the treatment and management of breast cancer. When breast cancer is detected early, treatment options are more effective and outcomes are improved.
Early detection can also help reduce the spread of cancer to other parts of the body, making treatment less invasive and less debilitating.