Tracey Emin appeared in high spirits as she met a friend for lunch in London on Friday, three months after revealing she had been given the all-clear from bladder cancer. The artist, 57, was diagnosed early last year after discovering a tumour in her bladder while working on a painting of a malignant lump.
Emin underwent surgery last summer, which involved the removal of many of her reproductive organs and the fitting of a stoma bag. She looked smart in a navy blazer and grey skirt, undeterred by the torrential rain as she entered an Italian restaurant.
Bladder cancer is caused by a tumour developing in the lining of the bladder or its muscle. Around 10,200 new cases are diagnosed in the UK each year, making it the 10th most common cancer. Symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent or urgent urination, pelvic pain, unexpected weight loss, and leg swelling.
Earlier this year, Emin told BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour that she was 'happy to be alive' after the 'dramatic' surgery. She said: 'Sounds weird but I’ve never been so happy. I realise how amazing my life is.' She compared the experience to having a child or gender reassignment, noting the profound change to her body.
