Lexy Thornberry, who found fame on the Australian version of Love Island, has shared the devastating news that she has been diagnosed with head and neck cancer at the age of 24.
A Shocking Diagnosis
The reality television star broke the news to her followers on social media on Monday night, revealing the diagnosis came as a profound shock. She posted a gallery of confronting images from her hospital experience, writing, 'I am 24 years old and I have been diagnosed with cancer.' She confirmed she was not joking, adding that she initially thought being put in a robe for an X-ray was overly dramatic, only to receive the life-altering diagnosis a few days later.
Lexy, a Pilates instructor, emphasised that her healthy lifestyle made the news even harder to comprehend. 'I'm a Pilates instructor and I teach people how to live healthy lives,' she wrote. 'There's nothing I did wrong, nothing that could have prevented it. It's just the luck of the draw. But it is something I will FIGHT.'
Treatment and a Plea for Privacy
The former islander disclosed that she will soon begin an intensive treatment plan involving both chemotherapy and radiation. Alongside this update, she issued a heartfelt plea for privacy during this challenging period. She asked people to respect her privacy and to keep their questions to themselves, stating that her initial announcement was all she was willing to share for the moment.
Head and neck cancer is an aggressive disease that affects areas such as the mouth, throat, and sinuses. While it is life-threatening if not caught early, with the correct treatment plan, it can be managed and overcome.
Outpouring of Support
Following her emotional post, Lexy's comment section was quickly flooded with messages of love and strength from friends and fans. Her Love Island co-star, Margarita Smith, wrote, 'Omg Lexy. Sending so much love to you and strength!! You’ve got this girl!' Celebrity makeup artist Lira Bahtiri also added words of encouragement.
The diagnosis comes during what should be a happy time for Lexy, who got engaged to her long-time boyfriend, Kiwi boxer David, earlier this year. He proposed during a sunset holiday in Mexico with a Tiffany ring. The couple's romance began after she sent him a direct message on Instagram following his bronze medal win at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
