Matildas star Kyra Cooney-Cross has had to abruptly return to Australia to be with her mother, who has been diagnosed with a rare, incurable cancer.
The midfielder was scheduled to play for Arsenal in the Women’s Super League against Manchester United on Saturday, but has had to fly back home to be with her mother, Jess, following her cancer diagnosis.
The 23-year-old shared the devastating update on Instagram, with a photo of them in hospital. She explained that her mum had been diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a “rare and aggressive” form of bile duct cancer.
“A few days ago, our world changed forever,” she said.
“My amazing mum, Jess, has been diagnosed with stage four cholangiocarcinoma.
“It’s a rare and aggressive cancer, and there is no cure.
“My mum is my hero, my best friend, my everything and the person who has shaped every part of who I am.
“She is the reason I am where I am today, her strength, love, and belief in me has carried me through everything.
“Trying to put into words what she means to me feels impossible.
“I’m now back in Australia to be with my mum, my sisters, and our family as we navigate what comes next. We are all still in shock and learning how to sit with the weight of this news.”
“We kindly ask that our privacy is respected as we process this together,” she concluded in her post.
Cooney-Cross’ teammates, including Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, and Sam Kerr have shared their messages of love and support.
The Matildas official instagram account also shared their support in the comments: “We’re with you every step of the way.”
Images: Instagram
