Comedian Jane Godley diagnosed with ovarian cancer
Brave comic given '50/50' chance of survival
Stand-up says she is 'staying positive' after shock diagnosis
Brave comedian Janey Godley has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and given a '50/50' chance of survival.
The popular comic, 60, announced the shock news to her fans on social media last night.
In a typically upbeat post, Janey said she was in "total shock" after getting the results of a biopsy.
She wrote: "Six weeks ago I was told I had a cyst on my ovary.
After getting pain over the past few weeks I went to get it checked out and it turns out I have ovarian cancer.
I'm staying positive as I have a fantastic team around me who I know will help me fight this."
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries. It is the sixth most common cancer in women in the UK, with around 7,500 new cases diagnosed each year.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions, which is why it is often diagnosed at a late stage.
The most common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Weight loss
- Pelvic or back pain
- Vaginal bleeding after the menopause
Treatment for ovarian cancer usually involves surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Chemotherapy may also be used to kill any remaining cancer cells.
The prognosis for ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the cancer when it is diagnosed.
If the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is around 90%.
However, if the cancer is diagnosed at a late stage, the five-year survival rate is around 30%.
Janey's fans have been quick to offer their support after hearing the news of her diagnosis.
One fan wrote: "You're a fighter, Janey. We're all behind you."
Another fan wrote: "Stay strong, Janey. We're all thinking of you."
Janey is a popular comedian and writer who has appeared on numerous TV and radio shows.
She is also a regular contributor to The Sunday Post newspaper.
Janey is married to comedian Andy Gray and they have two children.