Diagnosed with Cancer at Age 31: Sylvie Meis Shares Her 2009 Health Battle - Diagnosed with Cancer at Age 31: Sylvie Meis Discusses Her 2009 Health Battle
TV Host Sylvie Meis Reflects on Her Breast Cancer Journey 16 Years On
TV host Sylvie Meis shares her gratitude as she looks back on the toughest year of her life, 16 years after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The 47-year-old opened up about her experience in the celebrity podcast "May Way." In 2009, just days after her 31st birthday, she discovered a lump in her breast, a sensation she likened to an "earthquake." Despite her fear, Meis made the decision to undergo an operation against her doctor's advice. Reflecting on that decision now, she notes, "My stubbornness probably saved my life."
A few months after the surgery, Meis returned to work in front of the camera, wearing a wig, and later a short haircut during her chemotherapy. Her then-husband, footballer Rafael van der Vaart, provided crucial support during this difficult time. However, their relationship evolved, with Meis stating, "I started to emancipate myself."
Since their divorce in 2013, Meis and Van der Vaart have maintained a good relationship, as she puts it, "We're a happy blended family." Today, Meis feels deep gratitude for her journey, acknowledging, "As tough as it was, it made me the woman I am today."
** Background**
Following her diagnosis in 2009, Meis underwent a series of surgeries related to the illness and completed post-operative chemotherapy by May 2009. She was declared cancer-free and has since emerged as a symbol of resilience and emancipation.
Her personal life underwent major transformations following her health struggles, including marital difficulties and allegations of domestic violence, eventually leading to her divorce from Van der Vaart. Post-divorce, Meis moved on, marrying and divorcing Charbel Aouad, and later marrying Niclas Castello. Her son with Van der Vaart, Damián Rafael, born in 2006, remains a central part of her family dynamic.
- In the light of her breast cancer journey and being a symbol of resilience, Sylvie Meis advocates for a strong employment policy within the community, ensuring those battling medical conditions like cancer are treated with understanding and flexibility.
- Fascinated by her experience and inspired by her courage, science and health-and-wellness researchers aim to study the emotional impact of celebrity profiles on individuals diagnosed with medical conditions such as cancer, in their employment policy and well-being.
- As a renowned TV host who bravely faced breast cancer and hassince embarked on nutritional, fitness, and mental health-focused paths for health and wellness, Meis expresses her interest in integrating entertainment and programming that educates on medical conditions like cancer and promotes early detection, aligning with her personal mission and values.
