Kathy Griffin has revealed that she has stage one lung cancer despite never smoking a cigarette.
The comedian, 60, took to social media today (August 2) to make the revelation and tell fans that she will be undergoing surgery to have half of her lung removed as a result, as per the Daily Mail.
"I've got to tell you guys something. I have cancer," she wrote on Instagram.
"I'm going to go into surgery to have half of my left lung removed. Yes, I have lunch cancer even though I've never smoked!" she continued.
The comedian explained that doctors are "very optimistic" about her chances of recovery after the surgery.
While making the revelation, Griffin encouraged her fans to get vaccinated, telling them that she was, and if she hadn't been, her prognosis could have been a lot worse.
"Of course I am fully vaccinated for Covid.
"The consequences for being unvaccinated would have been ever more serious."
Fans of the comedian were quick to take to social media to share messages of support in light of the news.
One Twitter user wrote: "Sending so much love to @kathygriffin who's having cancer surgery right now."
A second added: "Thinking about you, @kathygriffin - wishing you a speedy recovery."
A third wrote: "I'm so sorry Kathy, you are badass and will defeat cancer. Sending you vibes for a speedy recovery, you got this."
A fourth remarked: "I have Stage IV lung cancer. Never-smoker. I have survived over 6 yrs. Research has led to new treatments that are helping us live longer. Best of luck, KG!"
A sixth similarly wrote: "Sending you all the healing vibes in the Universe! I was diagnosed with the exact same lung cancer stage 1 in 2017, and am 4 years cancer free. You go kick cancer's ass. #fckcancer"
Meanwhile, a seventh shared: "This happened to my Grandma at the beginning of the pandemic. Diagnosed with stage 1 lung cancer. She had to wait 4 months before she could get it removed but she is completely healed, didn't even have to go through treatment. Good luck Kathy!!!"
As per the Independent, Griffin's comedy career began back in 1980 when she became a member of the Los Angeles improvisational troupe The Groundlings.
Her work has gone from strength to strength since then, and she has led a number of standup specials for HBO and Bravo.
We'd like to take this opportunity to wish Griffin all the best with her surgery too.
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