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In brief
- Magda Szubanski was diagnosed with stage four mantle cell lymphoma last year.
- The Kath and Kim star says it’s a “big relief” to have completed chemotherapy and entered remission.
Renowned Australian comedian Magda Szubanski recently announced a much-anticipated update: her battle with a rare form of blood cancer has led to remission. This news was shared with her followers on Instagram, bringing a wave of relief and joy to her fans and friends alike.
Szubanski, who was diagnosed with stage-four mantle cell lymphoma—a particularly aggressive and uncommon type of blood cancer—about nine months ago, took to social media on Friday to express her gratitude and excitement. “I wanted to share the fantastic news, which is I’ve completed chemo and I am now in remission—so phew, big relief,” she stated, conveying the sense of victory and relief many could feel through her words.
While Szubanski was quick to clarify that remission does not equate to a cure, she remained hopeful. “It’s not a cure, but because I got a good remission, that hopefully means I’ll keep the cancer at bay for a good long time,” she explained, sharing her optimism for the future.
Widely adored for her role as the humorous and endearing Sharon Strzelecki in the popular sitcom Kath and Kim, Szubanski expressed her deep appreciation for the support she received throughout her journey. With a heart full of gratitude, she thanked her dedicated medical team and the public for their unwavering well-wishes. Her short hair, a sign of recovery, had started growing back after she had shaved it for treatment earlier this year, symbolizing her resilience and strength.
Best known for winning the hearts of Australians as the sporty, unlucky-in-love Sharon Strzelecki in sitcom Kath and Kim, Szubanski said she was “eternally grateful” to her medical team and public well-wishers. She sported short hair that had regrown since she had shaved her head to prepare for the treatment in May.
Szubanski, a staunch LGBTQI+ rights activist, began her announcement by wishing followers a happy Mardi Gras.
The Glitter Club — described as a premium vantage point for the Mardi Gras parade in Sydney’s Taylor Square — has been rebranded Magda’s Glitter Club for Saturday’s event.
“I am so gutted I can’t be there. I’m afraid it’s unavoidable, but have a wonderful time and big love to you all,” she said.
In 2018, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for her contribution to the marriage equality campaign.
She first burst onto Australian screens in the mid-1980s after being picked up by ABC talent scouts watching her perform in a university revue.
Her portrayal of Sharon sparked character roles in smash-hit movies, including Babe and Happy Feet.
Her credits also include sketch shows Fast Forward and critically acclaimed Big Girl’s Blouse, alongside Kath and Kim co-writers Gina Riley and Jane Turner.
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