Jasper Carrott has spoken out after his daughter Lucy Davis revealed she has stage 4 breast cancer, saying the family is supporting the actress and that they are “so proud” of her.
The 53-year-old star, best known for playing Dawn Tinsley alongside Ricky Gervais and Martin Freeman in the BBC version of The Office, shared the devastating news with fans on Tuesday.
Diagnosis and family statement
Lucy revealed she was diagnosed with “incurable” breast cancer a year-and-a-half ago, with the disease having spread to her bones. Now her father, comedy legend Jasper, has issued an emotional statement as he asked for privacy for the family during the difficult months ahead.
Jasper, who has been married to Lucy’s mum Hazel K Jackson since 1972, said: “This is a very difficult time for the whole family and we have been supporting her in every way possible since her diagnosis.
“We are so grateful for all the support we have had over this trying time and we are very hopeful for her future being what she wants it to be.”
He added: “We are so proud of our daughter and love her so much. The way she has conducted herself through many traumatic health issues is a lesson to us all.
“We would request privacy for the coming months, but thanks once again for the love and concern shown by so many people.”
Lucy's announcement and message
Lucy shared the news in an emotional post on Instagram, explaining that her cancer had metastasised to her spine, right hip and ribs.
She wrote: “I wanted to share something with you all that I've kept to myself for a while but for various reasons would like to share now.
“A year-and-a-half ago I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, which has metastasized to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip and my ribs. The cancer is incurable, and too late for chemo.”
The actress also urged people not to dismiss unusual changes in their bodies after revealing the first sign she noticed was extremely subtle.
“The initial lump that I felt, wasn't a 'lump' as such; rather a kind of hard spot. Really tiny. I almost didn't bother getting it checked. So I guess I'm saying don't ignore anything – get everything checked out.”
Determination to live fully
Despite her diagnosis, Lucy said she is determined to make the most of the time ahead.
“As of now, I'm trying to live out whatever might be left of my life in as fun a way as I possibly can,” she wrote.
She added: “I'm not scared of whatever comes next. I'm at peace with it. I'll see my Gracie sooner than expected, and for me, leaving my physical body just means going home. Any and all grieving is for my family; it's far harder for them than for me.”
