Sarah Beeny's Cancer Journey and Surgical Setback
Property expert and television presenter Sarah Beeny has shared a difficult chapter in her breast cancer recovery, revealing that her initial double mastectomy surgery was unsuccessful and had to be completely redone. The 53-year-old, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2022, underwent the major operation as part of her treatment, but encountered serious complications with her implants just months later.
In a candid new interview with Bella Magazine, Sarah disclosed that her first procedure did not go according to plan. 'The first surgery went wrong, so I had to have everything redone six months later - the implants hardened and reacted badly,' she explained when asked about the impact on her body image. Despite this significant setback, the presenter, who received the all-clear in 2023, maintains a perspective of gratitude.
A Family History and Genetic Discovery
Beeny's personal connection to cancer is profound and deeply rooted in her family history. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer forty years ago, a disease that later spread to her brain and tragically ended her life when Sarah was just ten years old. Adding to this family tragedy, Sarah's stepmother also died from a brain tumour.
Following her own battle with the disease, Sarah underwent genetic testing which revealed she carries the PALB2 gene mutation. This genetic marker significantly increased her lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and solidified her decision to opt for a bilateral mastectomy rather than a single procedure. The discovery also means there is a 50/50 chance she has passed the gene on to her four sons: Billy, Charlie, Rafferty, and Laurie.
Reflecting on her situation, Sarah compared her experience to that of her mother. 'I still feel lucky. My mum went through cancer 40 years ago, when the surgery was far more drastic,' she said. 'I have the PALB2 gene, so I had bilateral surgery, and my ovaries removed. But I was 50 with four children, so it didn't disrupt my life in the way it would have if I'd been younger.'
Turning Trauma into Advocacy
Channeling her family's painful experiences into positive action, Sarah Beeny has now taken on a new role as a patron for the charity Brain Tumour Research. She announced this commitment earlier this year on BBC Breakfast, calling for a significant increase in research funding for brain tumours.
'I'm very lucky, I had a very fortunate diagnosis,' Sarah stated. 'I'm fortunate that people like my mother, who died when I was 10, died, and they did the research. She won't see her grandchildren, but she died so I can see mine.' She expressed a clear desire to see the same level of resources and effort that have improved breast cancer outcomes directed towards finding a cure for brain tumours.
Her journey, including the challenging double mastectomy and subsequent corrective surgery, was documented in her 2024 film, Sarah Beeny vs. Cancer. By sharing her story so openly, from the surgical complications to the genetic implications for her family, Sarah continues to raise awareness and offer support to others navigating similar health challenges.
