Beloved Australian actress and comedian Magda Szubanski has provided an emotional update from the hospital as she undergoes treatment for stage four mantle cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. On Sunday, Szubanski took to Instagram to express her gratitude to a young girl who brightened her spirits during this challenging time.
In a heartfelt video shared from her hospital bed, the 64-year-old star of Kath and Kim acknowledged Annabella Willis, a 10-year-old girl from Adelaide, for her thoughtful gesture. “This is a special shout-out to little 10-year-old Annabella Willis in Adelaide,” Szubanski said. “Your ‘impressionation’ of Sharon Strzelecki really cheered me up, and I’m very touched. Thank you, my sweet, lots of love to you.”
Szubanski’s message resonated with many as she candidly described her current health struggles. In the caption accompanying her post, she noted, “Chemo is smackin’ me around right now, and you really cheered me up. Bless you, my darling.” This authenticity has endeared her to fans who have followed her career for decades.
Support from Fans and Friends
Following her post, numerous fans and friends flooded the comments section with messages of support. Renowned chef Nigella Lawson sent her love, writing, “Sending all the love in the world to you, Magda darling.” Other followers echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the Australian public’s backing during her difficult journey. Comments included heartfelt wishes such as, “Whole of Australia is backing you,” and personal messages from those sharing their own experiences with cancer treatment.
This is not the first time Szubanski has addressed her health publicly. She revealed her diagnosis of stage four mantle cell lymphoma in May 2023. This form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma originates in the lymph nodes and is known for its aggressive nature.
Honoring a Legacy
In a recent highlight of her career, Szubanski was inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame at the TV WEEK Logies in September 2023. During a pre-taped acceptance speech, she emphasized that her recognition was not solely due to her health challenges. “Let’s get this out of the way. I have not been awarded this honour because I have cancer. I am getting this because of 40 years of hard work — lobbying, bribing, threatening, whatever it took,” she quipped, showcasing her characteristic humor.
As Szubanski continues her battle against cancer, her positive spirit and her ability to connect with fans remain a testament to her enduring legacy in Australian television and media. Szubanski’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of community support during difficult times, and her heartfelt acknowledgment of Annabella Willis exemplifies the impact of small gestures in the face of adversity.
