Boris Johnson’s estranged wife Marina Wheeler, 54, reveals she was diagnosed with cervical cancer three months ago and thanks her sister and children for supporting her while medics removed tumour
- Marina Wheeler married Boris Johnson in 1993 and they separated in 2018
- She has spoken out about how important regular smear tests are for women
- Says cancer made her appreciate importance of holding loved ones close
Marina Wheeler, the estranged wife of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has revealed how she was diagnosed with cervical cancer three months ago and thanked her children for supporting her.
The 54-year-old has spoken of her cervical cancer diagnosis and urged women to make time for tests after medics removed her tumour.
Ms Wheeler, a QC who married Mr Johnson in 1993 and separated from him in 2018, told the Sunday Times she underwent surgery twice after being given the news in May.
She told the paper that her sister, Shirin, and four children were ‘wonderful’ as she battled the illness.
Ms Wheeler (pictured) has spoken of her struggle against cervical cancer and how important it is for women to get tested regularly
Ms Wheeler split from Johnson last year (the couple are pictured at the opening ceremony of 2012’s London Olympic Games
She was the second wife of the current resident of 10 Downing Street, and the couple share four children.
She told the paper of the importance of regular cervical screening, or smear tests, after a routine check in January revealed the problem which led to procedures in June and July.
‘I know the take-up of smear tests is way down,’ she said. ‘I know they can save your life.
Pictured: Boris Johnson and Marina Wheeler at a polling station at the conclusion of the EU Referendum on June 23 2016
‘If people are willing to listen – as they seem to be – why not say so? Why be afraid? I would urge other women to make the time and do the tests.’
Speaking of her reaction when she was given the diagnosis, she said: ‘I left thinking, ‘That’s absurd. I have no time for this. Quite apart from everything else I have a book to write.’
Ms Wheeler added she considers herself to be free of cancer, saying the experience made her appreciate ‘the incalculable value of holding close those who you love and trust’.