Magda Szubanski, the much-loved Australian actor famous for her portrayal of Sharon in Kath & Kim, has shown great courage in revealing her diagnosis. She is fighting stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma. The 64-year-old actress found her cancer unexpectedly while undergoing a routine breast scan following months of unexplained ill health. Yet this diagnosis presents a hidden but critical opportunity for her. Stage 4 cancer indicates that the illness has metastasized to other areas of her body.
Szubanski is now undergoing treatment in Melbourne and has been, she said, under the care of a first-class medical team. She’s shaved her head in anticipation of her treatment. This courageous decision confirms her tenacity and willingness to confront the fight in front of her. She’s great, very supportive friends and family. Their homecoming reminds us all just how crucial a deep support network can be in times of trial.
Understanding Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) which is one of the 60 plus subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This condition is a form of blood cancer. It drives the abnormal proliferation of B-cells, which tumorous growth can develop in the lymphatic system or other organs. Symptoms typically begin with painless swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin. Most laypersons wouldn’t immediately identify this enlargement as an urgent concern.
Szubanski’s family is no stranger to this aggressive form of cancer. She is a caregiver for her father, who received a stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma diagnosis in 2021. After battling fiercely, he was able to have three years of remission before relapsing just recently. Though he has begun treatment with chemotherapy once again, news reports have indicated that the former Vice President is doing exceptionally well. On a personal note, I’m happy to report that a family member diagnosed with MCL 15 years ago has made a great recovery and is doing well today.
“My dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma in 2021. He went through chemo and had been in remission for three years when we found out this last Christmas it was back, but not as aggressively. He started chemo again and will finish this week! He’s doing amazingly, and I know you will too!”
Treatment Options and Support
Magda Szubanski recently started one of the best treatments in the world for MCL, the Nordic protocol. This treatment regimen of monoclonal antibodies seeks and destroys the irregular B-cells creating havoc in her body. Szubanski expressed optimism about her care, stating, “I’m lucky to be getting absolutely world-class care here in Melbourne.”
Since then, the Nordic protocol has usually been some unique mix of chemotherapy and other therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. While it is an effective treatment option, it can leave patients immunocompromised and at risk for developing infections while receiving treatment.
“I’ve started one of the best treatments available (the Nordic protocol),” – Magda Szubanski
Szubanski’s experience is a familiar one for those who have found themselves in the trenches of these fights. One patient, Melissa Wong, recently recorded her walk with MCL. After an unsuccessful course of treatment, Jenny had her stem cell transplant and continued the Nordic protocol. Their inspiring words are a great reminder that hope and resilience go hand-in-hand with the cancer fight.
“I was diagnosed with Mantle cell lymphoma ten years ago! I was 57 at the time, I had 7 strong chemos over 7 months & a stem cell transplant!! I’m still here!! It’s a lot & Mantle cell is an unusual one but medicine today is amazing! I’m fighting fit & I believe in my glass being half full!! I’m sending so much love to you & you will get through it!! I ended up with curly hair!!!! Xoxo”
The Importance of Community and Awareness
Throughout her journey, Szubanski has emphasized the importance of community support and awareness surrounding Mantle Cell Lymphoma and other forms of cancer. The ongoing support of friends and family has offered the mom respite from the storm of this new normal. She is thankful for everyone who’s been by her side as she deals with her treatment, she said.
Cancer support networks are critical to delivering the emotional and practical support that anyone with cancer needs. Organizations dedicated to raising awareness about lymphoma and providing resources for patients can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life.
“They form tumors and begin to cause problems within the lymphatic system or the organ where they are growing,” – Cancer Research UK
