Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has shared that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer, just months after she underwent treatment for breast cancer.
The 64-year-old royal confirmed the news on her Instagram account. Ferguson said that she had a mole removed from her body during her reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and that it was found to be malignant melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs if not treated early.
She also went on to announce that she is undergoing further tests to determine the stage and treatment plan for her condition.
“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,” Ferguson wrote. “I am resting with family at home now, feeling blessed to have their love and support”.
Ferguson also urged her followers to check their skin regularly and to see a doctor if they notice any changes in their moles or freckles.
“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.”
Ferguson is the third member of the royal family to reveal a health issue in the past few days.
On Wednesday last week, Kensington Palace announced that Katherine, the Princess of Wales, had undergone abdominal surgery and would remain in hospital for up to two weeks.
The palace said that the surgery was not related to cancer and that the princess would need several months to recover.
On the same day, Buckingham Palace said that King Charles would receive treatment for a benign prostate condition and would postpone his public engagements for a short period of time.
