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Sylvie Meis regularly ponders cancer daily.

Remarkably, gratitude prevails despite the circumstances.

Sylvie Meis diagnosed with breast cancer at 31 years old.
Sylvie Meis diagnosed with breast cancer at 31 years old.

Sylvie Meis regularly ponders cancer daily.

Former 'Let's Dance' Presenter Sylvie Meis Reflects on Cancer Diagnosis

Dutch television presenter Sylvie Meis, now 47, recounted in a podcast her harrowing experience with breast cancer, diagnosed in 2009 on the eve of her 31st birthday. In the podcast, she describes the discovery as "feeling like an earthquake."

Meis insisted on immediate surgery, defying her physician's recommendations. She attributes her survival to her determination, stating that it "probably saved my life."

Following her operation, Meis underwent chemotherapy and lost her hair. To the surprise of many, she reappeared on screen just months later, wearing a wig. Footballer Rafael van der Vaart, who was her husband at the time, provided unwavering support throughout the ordeal.

However, the illness also played a role in the couple's eventual divorce in 2013, as Meis expressed feelings of emancipation and a shift in their dynamics.

Looking back, Meis affirms that the cancer experience transformed her into the woman she is today. Despite being pronounced cancer-free, she admits to having daily thoughts about her battle with the disease.

On her 47th birthday this year, Meis shared on Instagram that self-love is her primary focus in life, having stayed constant through various trials and tribulations. She expressed her resolve to face what life brings, stating, "I stand behind myself, and that's what truly matters."

Meis has continued to support breast cancer awareness initiatives, including Pink Ribbon Deutschland.

Source: ntv.de, csp/dpa

  • Sylvie Meis
  • Breast Cancer
  • Television Presenter
  • Celebrity Couples
  • Love Life

Enrichment Data

Meis's journey with breast cancer had a profound impact on her personal life and relationships, serving as a reminder of the fear of mortality. Despite the challenges, she has used her experience to advocate for continued conversation and awareness around breast cancer.

  • I'm not going to be able to avoid discussing the profound effect my journey with breast cancer had on my personal life and relationships, given that it served as a stark reminder of the fear of mortality.
  • Science and healthcare, particularly womens-health and mental-health, are subjects close to my heart, as they played significant roles in my battle against breast cancer.
  • In the realm of entertainment, my story as a television presenter turned cancer survivor and advocate has made me part of a unique group of celebrities who have shared their battles with the public.

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