Sarah Ferguson has received news of “the worst” form of skin cancer, but her spirit remains resilient with her motto of “onwards and upwards,” according to friends who spoke with Page Six.
The Duchess of York, aged 64, is now back home, accompanied by her daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, after seeking recovery at the renowned Mayrlife spa in Austria.
This health scare marks the latest in a series for the royal family within a single week. While Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, continues her hospital stay recovering from major abdominal surgery, King Charles is set to undergo treatment for an inflamed prostate this week.
Despite having the malignant melanoma removed, Ferguson awaits test results to determine if further treatment is necessary, which could involve additional surgical procedures to ensure complete removal of cancer margins.
Last year, the former renegade royal, who was welcomed back to the royal family fold over Christmas by King Charles, faced a breast cancer diagnosis, leading to a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery.
Maintaining her characteristic sense of humor, Ferguson disclosed on her podcast that she had affectionately named her reconstructed left breast “Derek,” emphasizing its significance in saving her life. During reconstructive surgery, dermatologists analyzed multiple moles, one of which was found to be cancerous.
A friend remarked, “The Duchess is back home and resting. This is the worst form of skin cancer you can get. But she always says, ‘onwards and upwards.'” Reflecting on her breast cancer diagnosis, Ferguson was struck by the response it triggered, prompting many to undergo mammograms. Undoubtedly, she will advocate for regular skin checks following her latest diagnosis.
Ferguson now resides at Royal Lodge, the Windsor home she shares with her disgraced ex-husband, Prince Andrew. On Monday, she shared online, “It was thanks to the great vigilance of my dermatologist that the melanoma was detected when it was. Naturally, another cancer diagnosis has been a shock, but I’m in good spirits and grateful for the many messages of love and support.”
Encouraging others to be vigilant, she emphasized the importance of monitoring moles for changes in size, shape, color, and texture, which could indicate melanoma. She also posted a photo from the Mayrlife Medical Health Resort, frequented by celebrities like Suki Waterhouse, Naomi Campbell, Karlie Kloss, and Rebel Wilson.
Reflecting on her cancer battle during her podcast, “Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah,” Ferguson acknowledged the impact of societal comparisons, particularly to her late former sister-in-law, Princess Diana. She described her surgery as a “waking up” moment to cease self-hatred and self-doubt.
