Singer Anastacia announced that she is recovering from a double mastectomy after she was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time in a decade.
"I wanted to share something with all of you in light of Breast Cancer Awareness month," the "It’s a Man’s World" singer wrote on Facebook Tuesday.
"I was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time earlier this year."
She added that "I am currently in the final stages of recovery after undergoing a double mastectomy with Latissimus Dorsi flap surgical procedure."
"It has been an intense journey, but I am feeling great and ready to start the next chapter," Anastacia (full name Anastacia Lyn Newkirk) continued.
"Breast Cancer Awareness Month gives ALL who are facing this disease a chance to gain strength and support from each other. Early detection saved my life twice."
She first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 when she went to the doctor for breast-reduction surgery. Her mammogram detected tiny, dense specks of calcium in her left breast.
"I saved my own life just because I wanted to reduce my breast size," Anastacia said. "I didn’t have breast cancer in my family. I didn’t have a lump in my breast."
"This would not have been detected with a self-exam."
The diagnosis turned the singer into a passionate advocate for mammograms. "If there’s anything I’ve learned from this, it’s to get a mammogram early."
The singer has battled a number of serious illnesses.
At 13, Crohn’s Disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, required surgery to remove part of her intestine and left her with a six-inch scar.
After her second breast cancer diagnosis in 2013, Anastacia was forced to cancel a European tour for her album. Instead, she opted for the double mastectomy.
"I will continue to battle," she wrote Tuesday.
"And lend my voice in anyway I can."
We wish her only the best.