Ricky Gervais has sent his support to his former Office co-star Lucy Davis after she revealed she has been diagnosed with incurable stage four breast cancer. The 53-year-old actress, best known for playing Dawn Tinsley in the iconic BBC sitcom, shared the news on Instagram on Tuesday (August 11).
Diagnosis and treatment
Lucy, who starred alongside Ricky, Martin Freeman and Mackenzie Crook for two seasons and two Christmas specials, said she was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The cancer has metastasized to her bones, including her spine, right hip and ribs, and it is too late for chemotherapy.
In her post, she urged others not to ignore any symptoms: "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."
Living with cancer
Lucy said she is trying to live her life as enjoyably as possible and stressed the importance of humour. "The thing that has been most vital to me is humour. I asked my friends and family to make fun of me as much as possible (which they’re really good at), and most importantly of all to not treat me like a sick person," she wrote.
She also said she is not scared of what comes next and is at peace with it, adding that she plans to continue her animal rights work and acting, which she described as one of her biggest joys.
Support from colleagues
Ricky Gervais showed his support by leaving a red heart in the comments section of her post. Other well-wishers included Jenna Fischer, who played Pam Beesly in the US version of The Office, who wrote: "Beautiful post. Love you lots. And yes to working with cancer! Let’s spread that message far and wide! How working is such a comfort!"
Shaun of the Dead director Edgar Wright commented: "Love you Lucy. Always. See you very soon." Melissa Joan Hart, star of the original Sabrina the Teenage Witch, posted: "Your outlook is inspiring and I'm sending you love, prayers and big hugs! And a little magic for a miracle!" Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, who has stage four prostate cancer, wrote: "Keep going Lucy." Jo Hartley, who played Pauline Gray in The Office, added: "Sending you so much love love love and a big hug!"
