Sarah Ferguson, the ex-wife of British Prince Andrew, received a skin cancer diagnosis a few months after having a breast tumor surgically removed, her representative announced on Sunday.
“Following her diagnosis with an early form of breast cancer this summer, Sarah, Duchess of York has now been diagnosed with malignant melanoma,” a spokesman said in a statement.
Shortly before the 64-year-old was scheduled to have a mastectomy and subsequent breast reconstruction surgery, she underwent tests ordered by a dermatologist, which is how the cancer was found.
According to the spokesperson, Ferguson had multiple moles removed and examined; one of them turned out to be cancerous. She thanked the medical staff who were helping her.
In Britain, Andrew and Ferguson fondly referred to as “Fergie” remain housemates in a manor close to Windsor Castle.
In the wake of a sex abuse scandal involving the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, he resigned from his royal duties.
The news comes at a time when health concerns have shaken the royal family, even though Ferguson is no longer a working royal.
King Charles must postpone his public appearances as he will be undergoing prostate surgery the following week.
In the meantime, 42-year-old Princess of Wales Catherine, his daughter-in-law, is recovering in the hospital following an abdominal surgery. Prince William, the 41-year-old heir apparent, has canceled a few appointments.
