Jasper Carrott has paid tribute to his daughter Lucy Davis after she revealed her cancer diagnosis, saying he is 'so proud' of the actress.
Lucy, 53, who is best known for playing Dawn Tinsley alongside Ricky Gervais and Martin Freeman in the BBC version of The Office, revealed on Tuesday that she had been diagnosed with "incurable" breast cancer.
Family's emotional statement
Now, comedy legend Jasper, who has been married to Lucy's mum Hazel K Jackson since 1972, has spoken out with an emotional statement. He 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 own words
Lucy broke the shock news on her Instagram page on Tuesday night, telling fans: "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 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.
"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. I always like to find the teachable moments in anything negative that happens. And cancer has not disappointed in that regard; there’s a lot I have learned from it, and I’m grateful for that."
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."
