Lucy Davis revealed that she was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer one year ago that has now become incurable.
“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,” The Office UK star, 53, wrote in a statement via Instagram on Tuesday, August 11. “A year and a half ago I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, which has metastasized to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip, and my ribs. The cancer is incurable, and too late for chemo.”
Davis explained that the “initial lump” in her breast was “really tiny” and felt more like a “hard spot.”
“I almost didn’t bother getting it checked. So I guess I’m saying don’t ignore anything – get everything checked out,” she continued. “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 actress shared that she experiences a great deal of pain and has troubles moving around.
“As some of you will know, the pain can really be something else,” she admitted. “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!)”
Davis added that the two things that have kept her strong for so long are “humor” and having her loved ones not treat her “like a sick person.”
“There’s nothing that will make you feel more unwell than being treated as if you’re unwell,” she shared.
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina alum also shared that she’s not afraid of death and is looking forward to reuniting with her late dog Gracie.
“I’m not scared of whatever comes next. I’m at peace with it. I’ll see my Gracie sooner than expected,” she continued. “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.”
For now, Davis is going to keep working as an animal rights activist and as an actress.
“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,” she wrote. “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 rose to fame for starring on the British version of The Office where she played receptionist Dawn Tinsley from 2001 to 2003. The actress also starred in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina as Hilda Spellman from 2018 to 2020.
Jenna Fischer, who played the American version of Davis’ character on The Office, left an inspiring message on the post as she also battled breast cancer.
“Beautiful post. Love you lots,” Fischer, 52, replied in the comments section. “And yes to working with cancer! Let’s spread that message far and wide! How working is such a comfort! ❤️”
