Elle MacPherson reveals she had breast cancer

Elle MacPherson, a renowned supermodel often referred to as 'The Body', has recently opened up about her battle with breast cancer, a diagnosis she received seven years ago. This revelation came after she underwent a lumpectomy in 2017 to remove a growth. Instead of opting for conventional medical treatments, Elle chose to pursue holistic therapies, which she believed were more aligned with her personal beliefs about health. However, it is important to note that Cancer Research UK cautions that some alternative therapies can be harmful and may lead to adverse side effects. Elle, who was a prominent figure in the modeling world during the 1990s alongside other iconic models like Claudia Schiffer and Naomi Campbell, has stated that she is currently in 'clinical remission', meaning that the cancer is not actively affecting her health. She shared her journey in her new book titled 'Elle: Life, Lessons and How to Trust Yourself', where she discusses her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way. In her interview with Woman's Weekly, Elle described the moment she learned about her cancer diagnosis as shocking and overwhelming. Her doctor recommended a mastectomy, which involves the removal of the breast, along with additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy. Faced with these options, Elle took her time to consider what would be best for her. She consulted with a total of 32 doctors and experts, seeking various opinions on her treatment plan. Ultimately, she decided against chemotherapy, opting instead for what she described as an 'intuitive, heart-led, holistic approach' to her health. In her book, she reflects on the difficulty of rejecting standard medical solutions, stating, 'Saying no to standard medical solutions was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. But saying no to my own inner sense would have been even harder. ' Elle also revealed that she was supported by a team of health specialists, including her primary doctor, a naturopath, a holistic dentist, an osteopath, and a chiropractor. However, the qualifications of these specialists remain unclear. During her treatment, Elle spent eight months in a rental property in Phoenix, Arizona, under the care of her health team. In her book, she discusses the mixed reactions from her family regarding her treatment choices. One of her teenage sons was supportive of her decision to avoid chemotherapy, while the other, who held more traditional views, was uncomfortable with her choice. Despite their differing opinions, both sons remained supportive of their mother. Elle's former partner, Arki Busson, also expressed concern about her decision to forgo conventional treatment, describing it as 'extreme'. Interestingly, Elle had previously discovered a cyst in one of her breasts in 2014, which turned out to be benign. Medical professionals generally advise individuals considering alternative therapies to consult with their cancer doctors for guidance and support. Many doctors are open to patients using complementary therapies that can enhance their well-being alongside conventional treatments. However, they typically discourage the use of alternative therapies as a replacement for medical treatment. Macmillan, a cancer support organization, emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety of any alternative therapy chosen. They advise individuals to verify the credentials of the therapist, as some alternative therapies can be costly and may pose serious health risks. There is a concern that some therapists may mislead patients into believing that alternative therapies can cure their cancer, which can be particularly dangerous if it leads them to abandon their conventional treatments. In response to Elle Macpherson's breast cancer diagnosis, Jane Murphy, a clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, highlighted that each breast cancer diagnosis is unique. Consequently, the treatment recommendations are tailored to the individual's specific situation and are made in collaboration with a team of breast cancer experts. These specialists rely on robust clinical evidence to inform their recommendations. Elle's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of making informed decisions regarding health and treatment options.