Sarah Ferguson's mental health took a hit when she was diagnosed with cancer twice within the span of a few months.
A report from US Weekly profiles the Duchess of York and contains quotes from an interview she initially completed with The Times. In the interview, Sarah confirms that her mental health "went to some dark places" as she reflected on her mortality.
Ferguson's mortality came into question while she was being treated for two cancers at the same time at one point. According to Ferguson, her skin cancer diagnosis came after she had skin samples taken while undergoing reconstructive surgery following a mastectomy.
The Duchess says that her mental health is in a better state now after trying various methods of therapy and rehabilitation. However, it's always difficult to predict how a person who's experienced so much stress will react when the next tragedy arises.
How Sarah Ferguson improved her mental health after such a traumatic experience
According to US Weekly, Sarah Ferguson used mindfulness and meditation to ease her stress as she managed the aftermath of her cancer cases and treatments. Sarah also leaned on her family as an immense source of support during her worst days.
Ferguson's breast cancer was properly treated when she received her aforementioned mastectomy. As far as her skin cancer, she still visits the doctor regularly to be examined and keep things under control.
The Duchess of York tries to maintain a positive outlook, as she knows the outcome of her cases could have been much worse. After her reconstruction surgery, she humorously nicknamed her repaired breast "Derek." Also, she admits that using creams to prevent sun damage is a lot better than having to undergo chemotherapy and other intense treatments.
Unfortunately, Sarah's case is not unique in the Royal Family. Last year, Prince William admitted that 2024 was the hardest year of his life. His father, King Charles, and wife, Princess Catherine, were diagnosed with cancer within months of each other. The Prince of Wales had to gather himself and act as a source of strength and support for both people as they underwent their own medical journeys.
It would be nice if 2025 delivers better news for the Royal Family, but there are numerous other problems the House of Windsor must address before it can reach an authentic state of peace. In the meantime, the preservation of Sarah Ferguson's mental health is a small victory the royals can celebrate together.