Sarah Ferguson has spoken out after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer.
The Duchess of York had several moles removed and analysed while having reconstructive surgery – just months following her breast cancer diagnosis.
But Ferguson, 64, said today on Instagram that she is in ‘good spirits’ despite the news.
‘Naturally, another cancer diagnosis has been a shock,’ she wrote, ‘but I’m in good spirits and grateful for the many messages of love and support.’
Ferguson underwent surgery last year after being diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine mammogram screening.
She was treated at King Edward VII’s hospital, a private clinic in London long favoured by the royals, and has since urged people to get checked.
Just six months later, Ferguson now faces a second cancer diagnosis.
Melanoma accounts for very few diagnosed skin cancers – just 4%, according to Cancer Research UK – but is among the most life-threatening.
As much as the number of cases is on the rise, so is the survival rate, studies have suggested.
Early detection is vital to prevent more serious disease from developing – doctors say Ferguson’s has been caught early.
‘It was thanks to the great vigilance of my dermatologist that the melanoma was detected when it was,’ she said in the post.
‘I believe my experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, colour and texture and emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma and urge anyone who is reading this to be diligent.
‘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.
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‘I am resting with family at home now, feeling blessed to have their love and support.’
The Duchess is the third senior royal to face a health scare in the last week.
Kate Middleton will be in hospital for up to two weeks, having undergone abdominal surgery in London last Tuesday. The surgery was successful, Kensington Palace said, and her condition was ‘not cancerous’.
King Charles will receive treatment for an enlarged prostate this week.
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