NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car Shares She’s Been Diagnosed With Breast Cancer

NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car Shares She’s Been Diagnosed With Breast Cancer
Image: NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car. Photo: AAP/Steven Saphore.

NSW Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car has announced that she will take immediate leave after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

The diagnosis came after a routine screening, which Car says was detected the cancer at an early stage. She is expected to begin treatment immediately and will temporarily step away from her ministerial duties while she focuses on her health.

This marks the second significant health challenge Car has faced in recent years, following her battle with kidney cancer in 2022. The Minister says testing has confirmed that her current diagnosis is unrelated to her previous condition.

“Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery — and so am I,” said Car in a statement. “I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again.”

“I’m going to have to receive some pretty significant treatment,” she said in a video on her social media, also confirming that her prognosis is “good”.

“The amazing medical team around me are really hopeful about the prospects after treatment.”

 

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A post shared by Prue Car MP (@pruecarmp)

Car also confirmed that she had spoken to Premier Chris Minns over the weekend to let him know about her health.

Support for Prue Car from NSW government after cancer diagnosis

Car’s diagnosis has drawn reactions of support from political colleagues, constituents, and community groups across New South Wales. Minns publicly expressed solidarity and voiced confidence in Car’s resilience, confirming she would remain Deputy Premier of NSW.

“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,” the Premier said in a statement.

“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.”

Car has indicated her intention to resume her duties as Deputy Premier following treatment, though no specific timeline has been given.

“I look forward to returning to the role I’ve cherished since our government took office in March 2023 — a role I absolutely love,” she said on social media.

During Car’s leave, Courtney Houssos, the Minister for Natural Resources, will temporarily assume responsibilities for both Education and Early Learning, and Western Sydney. Houssos will manage these portfolios in Car’s absence to maintain continuity.

Car spotlights the importance of regular screenings for breast cancer

Car also took the opportunity to spotlight the importance of regular health screenings and early detection, particularly concerning breast cancer.

“I just want to remind everyone, to all the women out there, just be really vigilant with your checks, getting it early — this is what’s happened in my case — is so important.”

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