Sunrise star Edwina Bartholomew gives hopeful update on her cancer battle

News presenter Edwina Bartholomew shocked viewers when she revealed her cancer diagnosis during an emotional segment on Sunrise. Now, the beloved media personality has shared an update on her health, expressing how “fortunate” she feels despite the challenges.

In a recent appearance at the Marie Claire International Women’s Day luncheon, Bartholomew spoke about her positive approach to facing cancer.

“I was fortunate that I had a month where I knew about it before I told everyone,” she said.

“I had this experience without having to go through the trauma of chemotherapy.

“[The cancer] was a gift, because it put things into perspective … I didn’t have to go through a really intense experience of being ‘in’ cancer and absorbed by it.”

Bartholomew also reflected on how grateful she is to continue living a normal life despite her diagnosis.

“I had a meeting with my specialist this week and I forgot to go get my blood test. So, it is not front of mind for me,” she said.

“I am so conscious of what a gift that is, that I have been able to continue on semi-normal.”

Bartholomew fought through tears when she first revealed to viewers that she had been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia during an episode of Sunrise last year. 

“I have been diagnosed with cancer. That’s a shock to say, and hard to say. It is a really good kind. It is called chronic myeloid leukaemia. It can be treated with a daily tablet. If I can take care of myself I will be completely fine,” she said at the time.

“It felt right to share this with you too. Many of you have been in similar situations or much, much worse and come out the other side stronger… And more resilient. That’s exactly what I plan to do.

“Secondly, the reason I’m telling you is because after I turned 40 I made the decision to prioritise my health. I got a skin check after Nat had her scare. I had a mammogram after I had a few lumps – that came back all clear. I even had an eye check – that’s fine.

“But my doctor sent me to get routine blood tests at the same time. One of those tests came back with levels out of whack.”

Despite her diagnosis, Bartholomew assured viewers at home that she feels “lucky” due to the available treatment options and remains “very positive” about her prognosis.