"Family unity is key": Sarah Ferguson gives cancer update
Sarah Ferguson has shared an update on her cancer journey during her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival.
The Duchess of York was diagnosed with skin cancer in January, not long after getting a mastectomy for her breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in June 2023.
When asked about her health, the royal told People: "This evening I am doing very well. I think that we've managed to get cancer in the right place rather than cancer ruling me. I've put cancer in the corner."
Speaking on the amfAR Gala red carpet, the 64-year-old added that it was important to be aware and get checked for both breast cancer and melanoma.
“I think you always have to be aware. I think it’s great to get checked for breast cancer [and] melanoma. I think you just have to be very candid about it," she told the publication.
“I think a lot of people get very frightened to talk about these things. I’m very happy with my mastectomy and my breasts and just to talk about it.”
Her diagnosis coincided with both her brother-in-law King Charles, and Princess Catherine's cancer diagnoses, although both of them have not disclosed what types of cancer they have.
She praised the royal family for their "unity" during these difficult times and how she has been able to offer support to Charles and Catherine.
"I think family unity is key… I think the key to life is that we all support each other," she said.
"And also forgiveness is a great thing. I think forgiveness of yourself, and forgiveness of others."
Earlier this month, the duchess' eldest daughter Princess Beatrice spoke about her mother's health in her debut TV interview on This Morning.
"She’s such a phenomenal icon. As a mum she’s been amazing," she said, adding that despite going through so much in the last year, she felt inspired by her mum's resilience and sense of purpose.
“She’s doing really well. She had a bumpy health scare last year but she’s all clear now. But I think at 64, she’s thriving. She’s been through so much, but now she’s coming into her own.
“We are just reminded when any parent or individual has a health scenario, you really need to get the checks you need as early as you possibly can.”
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