Sarah Ferguson speaks out on recent health battles and how early detection saved her life

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York has lived a colourful life. Once an outcast from the Royal Family, the mother of Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie has gone on to become a respected children’s author, successful film producer and doting grandmother.

Now the Duchess of York has added another feather to her cap, that of cancer activist, becoming head patron for UK cancer charity Prevent Breast Cancer.

Her new role comes after the 64-year-old was treated for breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and reconstruction surgery before later being diagnosed with skin cancer.

Since then, Ferguson has been outspoken about the need for early check-ups, admitting it was her sister Jane who pressured the philanthropist to make up a missed mammogram appointment.

Writing in The Sun, Sarah explained the check-up was low on her priorities.

“I had almost missed the appointment as I couldn’t face a journey into central London on a hot ­summer’s day and thought I would put it off,” she wrote.

“It was only when I ­mentioned this by chance to my sister Jane, who had called me from her home in Australia, that she went into bossy older sibling mode and insisted I went.

“That check-up, and the treatment I underwent, saved my life.”

Thankfully, Ferguson could also rely on her daughters who have helped her stay positive and now she has been informed that her “outlook is good.”

“I’ve been told by my physicians that I shouldn’t use the phrase ‘cancer free’, but treatment has been successful and tests show there has been no spread or recurrence,” she wrote.

“I’m reconciled to the fact that I will have to have checks for the rest of my life.

“I’m now determined to do whatever I can to raise awareness by sharing my experience.”

Since being diagnosed with skin cancer, mere months after triumphing over breast cancer, Ferguson has remained open about her health battle in an effort to raise awareness and highlight the importance of early intervention.

After receiving her latest diagnosis, Ferguson delivered a moving message to her fans and well-wishers, expressing her gratitude for the outpouring of “love and support” she has received since sharing her diagnosis.

In an emotional Instagram post, the Duchess revealed the diagnosis had come as a “shock” while thanking those who had sent their well wishes.

“I am incredibly thankful to the medical teams that have supported me through both of these experiences with cancer and to the MAYRLIFE Clinic for taking gentle care of me in the past weeks, allowing me time for recuperation. I am resting with family at home now, feeling blessed to have their love and support,” she said at the time.