Duchess Of York Sarah Ferguson Is Recuperating After Undergoing Surgery For Breast Cancer
By Fiyin Olowokandi on June 27, 2023 at 12:00 AM EDT
Updated on July 4, 2023 at 7:50 AM EDT
Sarah Ferguson is on the road to recovery! The former senior member of the British Royal Family was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer.
The celebrated author, affectionately known as Fergie, joined the monarchy in 1986 following her marriage to Prince Andrew, the Duke of York. However, she was stripped of her HRH title following the couple's divorce but retained her status as Duchess.
The mother of two may no longer be an official royal. However, she remains a beloved part of the regal system. This is why news of the "A Gift of Kindness" writer's health condition broke several hearts.
Sarah Ferguson's Rep Reveals She Suffered No Symptoms Until A Routine Checkup Unveils Cancer
A spokesperson for the Londoner recently opened up about the humanitarian's well-being to PEOPLE. The representative revealed the Teenage Cancer Trust patron had undergone treatment for cancer after its discovery during her usual checkup.
"Sarah, Duchess of York, was recently diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer detected at a routine mammogram screening," the source announced. "She was advised she needed to undergo surgery, which has taken place successfully."
Shedding light on the "Her Heart for a Compass" author's current state, the spokesperson explained the media personality was on the road to recovery. "The Duchess is receiving the best medical care, and her doctors have told her that the prognosis is good," the insider claimed.
"She is now recuperating with her family. The Duchess wants to express her immense gratitude to all the medical staff who have supported her recently," the rep continued, adding that the 63-year-old hoped her experience would inspire others to get regular checkups.
"She is also hugely thankful to the staff involved in the mammogram which identified her illness, which was otherwise symptom-free," the representative noted. "And believes her experience underlines the importance of regular screening."
The Duchess' representative also revealed she recorded a podcast episode a day before her scheduled operation. Ferguson's breast cancer diagnosis came a month after the mother of two announced her new business venture.
In May, the media personality updated her Instagram page with news of her podcast, "Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah." Prince Andrew's former wife shared a promotional picture for the program, where she posed with Sarah Thomson, her co-host and longtime pal.
In the snap, the dynamic duo looked at each other with a knowing smile as though sharing a secret. "It's about time we spilled the tea…our brand new podcast 'Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah' is out next week on all streaming platforms," the Londoner announced in her caption.
More details about the podcast were shared on the show's Spotify profile. The showrunners claimed the program would feature "candid conversations" about the women's "roller coaster" lives over tea. The page read:
“With a cup of tea in hand, each week, you’ll hear about the week’s hot topics as the hosts share their thoughts and perspectives on everyday issues. The duo will also be joined by special guests and share personal insights to listeners’ dilemmas.”
Promising a worthwhile podcast experience for fans, the message continued: "These two great friends will approach everything with infectious enthusiasm and a healthy dose of humor. The Duchess and Sarah promise to leave no stone unturned and no biscuit un-dunked."
The 'A Most Intriguing Lady' Author Raved About The Beautiful Intention Behind Her Grandson's Name
Before cancer knocked on Ferguson's door, the 63-year-old had plenty to celebrate as she became a grandmother for the third time. Earlier in June, the humanitarian opened up about the latest addition to her family, Ernest George Ronnie.
The little boy is the second child to be welcomed by her daughter Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank. The proud grandmother gushed about the baby during her "Tea Talks with the Duchess & Sarah" episode.
After going on about what a "very, very seriously beautiful little boy" Ernest was, the 63-year-old noted she was touched by the origins of her grandson's name. Breaking down the newborn's identity, the media personality said:
"He's called Ernest George Ronnie. He's Ernest because George III's middle name was Ernest, and it's fabulous. It'll be good in Spain when we come to a villa. Ernesto."
The "Budgie the Little Helicopter" author continued: "And then George after Jack's father and Ronald — Ronnie — after my father, which was touched [sic]." Ferguson confessed that she cried after discovering the tribute to her late dad.