Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a plea for Aussies to get regular cancer checks following Edwina Bartholomew sharing her own diagnosis.
On Friday Bartholomew, 41, bravely revealed she had been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia following blood tests in July.
The mother of two, broke down in tears, as she spoke about the diagnosis, but did say she has caught it early and will treat it with a pill.
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Just hours after Sunrise, Albanese shared a message of support for Bartholomew before telling Aussies to remain vigilant about cancer.
“Edwina has been very brave in revealing this news — and it’s terrible news,” Albanese said, speaking to 7NEWS.
“Our thoughts go out to her and her family. But also, the message that she has, which is early detection can make a difference.
“So, please, get checked out because it can save lives.”
Albanese said the “government can always do more” but referred to its landmark Australian Cancer Plan while speaking about the country’s initiatives.
“There’s always more the government can do, but we have released our landmark Australian Cancer Plan. The Australian Cancer Plan is about addressing this issue with research.
“We know the Australians of the year, for example, are doing amazing work. Landmark work and making a difference. We know there is more to do. We need to address this issue.
“There wouldn’t be an Australian that hasn’t been impacted by a family member or friend, which is why we need to do more … Early detection makes a big difference.”
Speaking on Sunrise, Bartholomew said she wanted to go public with her diagnosis as a way to encourage others to get checked.
“The reason I’m telling you is because, after I turned 40, I made the decision to prioritise my health. I got a skin check after Nat had her scare,” she said.
“I had a mammogram after I had a few lumps. That came back all clear. I even had an eye check. That’s fine.
“But my doctor sent me to get routine blood tests at the same time. One of those tests came back with levels out of whack.
“Please, particularly for mums who always take care of everyone else, please take care of yourself too. And just check in with your doctor.”
Bartholomew has had an outpouring of support following Sunrise.
“Strength and love, Edwina,” ABC star Michael Rowland wrote.
“Sending you love,” ModelCo’s Shelley Sullivan said.
“You are just every variety of incredible,” Matt Doran wrote.
“Whatever you need … we’ve got you. Lots of love x,” Kylie Gillies added.