Kelly Hoppen, 63, has been diagnosed with the mildest form of breast cancer, Ductal Carcinoma In Situ. The former Dragons’ Den star has admitted feeling compelled to tell her story, after only learning she was “out of the woods” last month.
Kelly opened up about her diagnosis after admitting it was her “own stupidity” that got her into the situation, after she ignored routine mammogram invitations for over eight years.
The BBC star’s mother had a breast cancer scare when she was relatively young, leaving the interior designer shocked for not getting herself tested.
She credited her executive assistant and personal assistant for ensuring she finally went through with the appointment in September last year.
The results confirmed she had Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), meaning some cells in the lining of the ducts of the breast tissue had turned into cancer cells but had not yet spread into the surrounding breast tissue.
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She wrote in her Daily Mail column: “(My doctor) explained that I’d been very fortunate indeed: DCIS is the very mildest form of cancer.
“It was in two milk ducts and I was booked in to have the cancer cells removed from the ducts — an awful procedure which made me feel very sore.
“I was hugely fortunate. Although I’d neglected my check-ups, I was lucky that my cancer was detected early. Had it not been, I might have faced a less happy outcome. Actually, I might not be here writing this cautionary tale now.”
She added there was a 10 to 15 per cent chance cancer will return, but she vowed never to skip a mammogram again.
Kelly confirmed at the time: “After two great years as an investor in Dragons’ Den, I have decided the current series will be my last.
“I have had a brilliant time and made several successful investments.
“It’s been a privilege to be part of a programme which champions entrepreneurs. However, due to a packed schedule and international commitments, including a new venture designing film sets, I sadly cannot commit to the filming schedule.
“I will continue to work and invest in young entrepreneurs. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Dragons’ Den and met many inspiring entrepreneurs along my journey. I will miss my fellow judges and I’m sure someone amazing will fill my seat.
