Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has recently opened up about her breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent single mastectomy, revealing a unique approach to her recovery. In the latest episode of her podcast, "Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah," Ferguson introduced her "new best friend Derek," the name she has given to her reconstructed left breast.
"Derek is very important because he saved my life," the Duchess explained, adding that the name made her laugh and gave her a sense of having a constant protector. Her right breast, she humorously named Eric, acknowledging that he was "not as perky as Derek," but assured listeners that she would get Eric "balanced."
The 63-year-old Duchess underwent a single mastectomy in June and has been recuperating at the Royal Lodge, the Windsor home she shares with her ex-husband, Prince Andrew. She described her health as "getting much better" and hinted at plans to travel in about a month.
Ferguson's breast reconstruction surgery, which followed her mastectomy, took eight hours, requiring her to stay in the ICU for four days for monitoring due to the lengthy period under general anesthesia. Speaking about her reconstruction, she referred to it as a "very interesting thing to come to terms with," expressing pride in the work of the surgeons, nurses, and doctors who assisted her.
The Duchess was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer during a routine mammogram test. Despite having no symptoms or lumps, the mammogram revealed a shadow in her breast area, leading to a positive diagnosis for breast cancer. She was advised to undergo surgery immediately.
Ferguson has been candid about her health journey on her podcast and Instagram page, expressing gratitude to the medical professionals involved in her surgery and to those who have sent well wishes. She also shared a touching moment of walking Queen Elizabeth II's corgis, Sandy and Muick, on the grounds of Windsor, a task the late monarch used to enjoy.
Her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, and Prince Andrew, have reportedly been very supportive during her recovery. As she continues to heal, the Duchess of York remains a beacon of resilience, facing her health challenges with a unique blend of humor and grace.
