Fashion designer Camilla Franks diagnosed with breast cancer

Fashion designer Camilla Franks has been diagnosed with breast cancer three months after giving birth to her first child.

Franks, 42, revealed the diagnosis on Wednesday morning, saying she was determined to fight the disease and is under the care of "one of Australia’s leading oncologists".

Fashion designer Camilla Franks has been diagnosed with breast cancer.Credit: James Brickwood

In an announcement to her team of 250 staff, Franks said: “I start on this journey humble but resilient; I would be lying if I said I wasn’t scared but I am fearlessly determined to do whatever it takes by focusing on my body, mind and spirit as I take my first trusting steps towards recovery.

"As you know, my beautiful daughter Luna arrived a few months ago, and it is her smile and warmth that remind me this is a challenge I will embark on with courage – for her and my fiancé as well as myself. With the incredible love and support of my little family I have no doubt I will beat this.

"I am so grateful for those around me, who have already been such an amazing support to me following this news.”

The designer, who shot to fame for her colourful kaftans, is due to show her new collection at Fashion Week Australia next Thursday, where she will close the industry event.

A spokeswoman for the brand said the show will still go ahead, but it is unclear at this stage whether Franks will attend.

A statement from the brand's CEO, Jane McNally, said: “We have no doubt that Camilla will face the challenging weeks ahead with her usual determination and exceptional fighting spirit. The love and support of her entire tribe is with her
always.”

Franks just returned from a trip around Australia with her daughter, Luna, and partner, Welsh musician JP Jones, to find inspiration for her upcoming range.

She previously overcame a battle with Bell's Palsy, a nerve paralysis disease, in 2013.