Beloved Australian comedian Judith Lucy has revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and will undergo a double mastectomy, sharing the difficult news with the trademark humour that has defined her career.
The 58-year-old announced her diagnosis in a candid video on social media, admitting she was still coming to terms with the news.
“Long story short, I’ve got breast cancer,” Lucy told her followers.
The comedian said her cancer had fortunately been detected early and was considered “relatively non-aggressive”.
Lucy revealed the diagnosis began with a routine mammogram around three weeks ago, after she received an email from BreastScreen Australia telling her the results were “a bit weird”.
She used the frightening experience to issue an important message to other women.
“Ladies, for the love of God, keep up with your mammograms,” she urged.
Lucy subsequently underwent a lumpectomy last Friday, but said doctors discovered more cancer during the procedure.
In a twist that could almost have been written for one of her comedy routines, Lucy revealed her surgeon was named Dr Fun.
“Doctor Fun is amazing. I am in her debt, but we have gone from a lumpectomy to a mastectomy,” she said.
While the cancer has only been detected in one breast, Lucy has made the decision to have both breasts removed.
Even while discussing the daunting surgery ahead, the much-loved comedian managed to find humour in the situation, joking that after decades with her “large and spectacular” breasts, she was ready for a change.
“I think I’m quite fine with going bra-free for my last chapter,” she said, before adding optimistically that her “last chapter is going to be very long and healthy”.
The timing of the diagnosis has not been lost on Lucy either.
It comes just as she releases her new book, Well Well Well … My Wellness Odyssey, which chronicles her attempts to improve her physical and mental wellbeing and her experiences with the wellness industry.
“There’s nothing like releasing a book about wellness as you’re being diagnosed with breast cancer,” she joked.
Lucy said the irony was somewhat fitting, given the book ultimately concludes there are no simple or instant solutions when it comes to good health.
Despite admitting she remains “in shock”, Lucy reassured her followers she was doing OK and promised to keep them updated as she undergoes treatment.
Messages of love and support have since poured in from fans and fellow Australian entertainers, including comedians Celia Pacquola, Geraldine Hickey and Dave Hughes.
Lucy has been one of Australia’s most recognisable comedy voices for more than three decades, building a devoted following through stand-up, television, radio, books and theatre.
And while the diagnosis has delivered an unexpected and frightening turn, Lucy’s message was unmistakably hopeful: she fully intends for there to be plenty more chapters to come.
