The Office star Lucy Davis reveals terminal cancer diagnosis in heartbreaking statement

The Office star Lucy Davis has announced her terminal cancer diagnosis in a heartbreaking statement.

The 53-year-old actress, best known for playing Dawn Tinsley in the hit BBC sitcom, has revealed she was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer a year and a half ago.

Taking to Instagram earlier today (11 August), Davis wrote: "Hi friends:) I wanted to share something with you all that I’ve kept to myself for a while but for various reasons would like to share now.

"A year and a half ago I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, which has metastasised to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip, and my ribs. The cancer is incurable, and too late for chemo."

She continued: "The initial lump that I felt, wasn’t a ‘lump’ as such; rather a kind of hard spot. Really tiny. I almost didn’t bother getting it checked. So I guess I’m saying don’t ignore anything - get everything checked out:)

"As of now, I’m trying to live out whatever might be left of my life in as fun a way as I possibly can. I always like to find the teachable moments in anything negative that happens. And cancer has not disappointed in that regard; there’s a lot I have learned from it, and I’m grateful for that."

The statement carried on: "As some of you will know, the pain can really be something else. Standing and walking for too long a time can be hard, and I need to use a wheelchair sometimes (so if you see me toddling around in one, feel free to give me a push!)

"The thing that has been most vital to me is humour. I asked my friends and family to make fun of me as much as possible (which they’re really good at🙄), and most importantly of all to not treat me like a sick person. There’s nothing that will make you feel more unwell than being treated as if you’re unwell."

Rounding off, the actress shared: "I’m not scared of whatever comes next. I’m at peace with it. I’ll see my Gracie sooner than expected, and for me, leaving my physical body just means going home. Any and all grieving is for my family; it’s far harder for them than for me.

"I’m still going to keep up all my work for animal rights. It’s so important to me and I still would like to keep working. I’m perfectly able to do so, and acting is one of the biggest joys in my life.

"For those of you on a similar journey to mine, I do wish you well. Cancer asks a lot from us, physically and mentally. And we all get to do it however we choose."

Davis concluded: "Much love to you all."

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.