NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car will start “immediate treatment” after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Ms Car said in a statement on Tuesday she had informed Premier Chris Minns she would be “taking personal leave for an undetermined period of time”.
“A recent screening has detected breast cancer, and I will now begin immediate treatment,” she said.
“Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery — and so am I.
“I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again. Testing has confirmed this is unrelated to my previous diagnosis.”
Ms Car said she looked “forward to returning to the role I’ve cherished” and named Natural Resources Minister Courtney Houssos as steward her education and Western Sydney portfolios in her absence.
Mr Minns has responded with a statement describing Ms Car as a “fighter” and “fully” supporting her decision to focus on her health.
“The thoughts of the entire government are with our colleague and our friend Prue Car as she begins treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis,” he said.
“I know Prue well. She is a fighter, and I know she will face this challenge with the same determination and grace that she brings to everything she does.
“I fully support her decision to take the time she needs to focus on her health and recovery, and I know she will be supported by expert care and the love of her family, friends, and colleagues.”
More to come.
