Six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy has revealed he has 'two to four years' left to live after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis.
The former British cycling champion had originally revealed his cancer to the world earlier this year via a statement on social media, which explained that he'd been trying to keep the diagnosis 'private' for the sake of his 'young family' but had been forced to disclose the illness, before adding that he was undergoing chemotherapy at the time.
Hoy is famous for his highly decorated career on the cycling track, winning six Olympic golds and one silver between the years of 2004 and 2012, making him the second most successful British cyclist of all time.
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However the 48-year-old has now revealed in an interview with The Sunday Times that he'd been diagnosed with prostate cancer, which has spread to his spread to his bones - meaning it is now incurable.
Hoy's cancer had first been detected after a scan for shoulder pain revealed a tumour. Further tests also revealed growths in his pelvis, hip, spine and rib.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, the Olympic great is remaining positive about his situation, telling the newspaper: "As unnatural as it feels, this is nature.
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"You know, we were all born and we all die, and this is just part of the process."
He continued: "You remind yourself, aren't I lucky that there is medicine I can take that will fend this off for as long as possible."
Hoy - who shares two children, aged seven and 10, with his wife Sarra - went on to explain that he'd been aware of the terminal diagnosis since last year.
"Hand on heart, I’m pretty positive most of the time and I have genuine happiness," he added.
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"This is bigger than the Olympics. It’s bigger than anything. This is about appreciating life and finding joy.”
Hoy also went on to reveal that his cancer diagnosis wasn't the only devastating health news the family had received, with Sarra being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis just months before his cancer was discovered.
Since the news broke, Hoy has shared a reassuring message to fans via his Instagram account, writing: "You may see in the news this weekend some articles about my health, so I just wanted to reassure you all that I’m feeling fit, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me. Onwards!"
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If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Brenna Cooper