Princess Catherine cancer battle: How royal’s approach differs to Elle Macpherson

They are two of the world’s most famous women who have both battled cancer, but Princess Catherine and Elle Macpherson could not be further apart.

OPINION

They are two of the world’s most famous women who have both battled and overcome cancer.

But the starkly contrasting ways that Princess Catherine and Elle Macpherson have fought the horrendous disease could not be more different.

Although it is still not known what type of cancer the Princess of Wales was diagnosed with, the much-loved royal has been open about the fact that she received chemotherapy after the disease was detected during abdominal surgery.

Princess Catherine announces the completion of her chemotherapy in a heartwarming video. , Picture: Will Warr/Prince and Princess of Wales/Instagram

Coming shortly after King Charles’ shock cancer diagnosis, news that the mother of three was battling the illness sparked grave concern among royal fans.

But, as she outlined in  the initial video released last March announcing her diagnosis, the royal was following medical advice and undergoing preventive chemotherapy.

And in a show of solidarity that would no doubt have given those suffering the disease a glimmer of hope, she told other cancer patients: “You are not alone.”

Catherine’s declaration led to a huge surge in visits to cancer charity websites as well as the National Health Service’s home page in the UK.

The much-loved royal revealed her shocking diagnosis in a video message last March.

Princess Catherine makes her triumphant return to Wimbledon. Picture: WireImage

Despite the lack of detail around her diagnosis, her measured approach could not have been more clear — act on the advice of medical professionals. 

After months of what would no doubt have been harrowing treatment with an extreme physical and mental toll, the Princess of Wales has announced she is in remission after completing her chemotherapy. 

Compare this to Australia’s own Elle Macpherson who has sparked fury with her revelations about her personal battle with breast cancer. 

Macpherson. who is the founder of WelleCo, a pricey range of powdered health drinks, has claimed to have overcome the disease by taking “a holistic approach”.

Elle Macpherson during her 60 Minutes interview. Picture: 60 Minutes

Going against the advice of “32 doctors”, Macpherson has stated in her new book Elle: Life, Lessons, and Learning to Trust Yourself, that she rejected chemotherapy after undergoing a lumpectomy.

As the nation’s first supermodel to achieve stratospheric global fame, the woman famously known as The Body will always hold a special place in the hearts of Australians.

But in this case, she is sending an extremely dangerous message that could influence vulnerable people, particularly women, to forego standard medical treatment for cancer and opt for Macpherson’s “holistic” approach.

Let’s be clear, no amount of green juice and healthy eating will help someone beat this devastating disease.

Elle Macpherson has drawn criticism for her comments about cancer treatment. Picture: Getty Images

A leading Australian oncologist has branded Macpherson’s claims “bizarre” and dangerous.

“It is vitally important for women to follow the specialist advice of their doctor,” Professor John Boyages told The Australian.

“In my 40 year career, I have never seen breast cancer disappear on its own or through alternative, holistic treatments.”

TV legend Kerri-Ann Kennerley — who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and advocates for early detection — weighed in after Macpherson doubled down on her comments in a controversial 60 Minutes interview.

Elle Macpherson says she took a holistic approach to her battle with cancer.

The supermodel’s remarks, Kennerley told The Australian, were terrifying and could have disastrous consequences.

“Without question, it will result in the future that somebody will take that line and feel confident enough to try and do it themselves naturally, and someone is going to die,” Kennerley said.

It’s been a hectic time for Macpherson after her revelation, with the wellness guru abruptly cutting off a Brisbane radio interview on Tuesday after the hosts asked her how she votes as an Australian citizen living in Miami.

Meanwhile, Princess Catherine is taking a grounded approach and is clearly not taking anything for granted after her ordeal.

“Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes,” she said.

Originally published as Princess Catherine cancer battle: How royal’s approach differs to Elle Macpherson