"It’s a lot to take in": Carly Findlay reveals cancer diagnosis
Australian writer, speaker and disability advocate Carly Findlay has revealed she has cancer in an emotional post shared on Instagram.
"I have cancer. I also had a hysterectomy, and I’ll have early menopause," she began her post.
Findlay said she had been taken to hospital the day she returned from an overseas trip, with severe stomach pain and bloating.
“Tests showed that I have a large ovarian cyst, also known as an ovarian mass,” she said in an earlier post.
The 42-year-old, known for her work as an appearance advocate as she lives with ichthyosis, a genetic disorder that affects her skin and hair said she had been experiencing symptoms for six months before they discovered the cyst.
She was required to have a full hysterectomy, which means that she had lost the choice to have children, and may also experience early menopause as a result.
"The surgery went well. I seem to be recovering ok, but this is the first time I’ve had this type of surgery so I don’t know what’s normal," she continued in her post.
"Unfortunately two types of cancer were detected during surgery."
“I’ll find out more about the diagnosis and treatment soon.”
She added that: "Everyone around me has been incredibly gentle and kind.
"The surgeon who led the surgery held my hand as she told me the news. Nurses are angels and should be paid more."
The appearance advocate also said that while she suspected it may have been cancer, it was difficult for her to take it all in.
“Even though I knew cancer was a possibility, it’s a lot to take in, especially while recovering from major surgery.”
Friends and fans have shared their well wishes.
"Ah. Lovely Carly. Praise be for the intervention of medicine. Your heart and spirit and those who love you will carry you through this, and you will emerge, as always, with grace and courage. You are a gift. Much love and strength," wrote Kate Langbroek.
"Sending you so much love, light and hugs. Thinking of you. You got this.🙏❤️" added Jelena Dokic
"Sending you so much love 💕" added one fan.
Images: Instagram