10 July 2023 , 20:51
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Ben Cohen's ex-wife Abby has revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer.
The mother of the former Rugby Union star's two children uploaded an incredibly moving video to social media documenting her story, including scenes of her having a stoma bag fitted. In the video, Abby declares her battle with the disease as "the toughest yet", though understandably does not provide details on her specific cancer diagnosis.
She did, however, explain how she only had one symptom before speaking to her doctor. The video also shows Abby, 44, being helped to walk while attached to her monitor following an operation. Alongside the video, posted to Instagram, was a particularly moving caption.
It read: "This was and is the toughest yet. I'm unlucky, but lucky, to have been warned only once with a symptom of this terrible illness. With huge thanks to the NHS for saving my life and taking good care of me when I felt so scared and most vulnerable.
"I can't express enough how lucky I am to have such amazing family and friends that have helped me through this incredibly tough journey. Never ignore your body when it's trying to warn you, I didn't and it's given me a chance to live my new life. In time and with the right treatment. I'm hoping this WILL all be a distant memory for me. You never know how strong you are until it's your only choice. #F**kcancer."
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Ben Cohen's ex-wife Abby (AbbyCohen/Instagram)
Abby has been diagnosed with cancer (AbbyCohen/Instagram)Abby and Ben share twin daughters Harriette and Isabelle, 15, while Ben welcomed a third child, Mila, in 2016. The pair were married for 11 years before Ben fell for his Strictly Come Dancing partner Kristina Rihanoff following his spell on the 2013 edition of the dancing competition.
Abby has since found love with her new partner Dave and went public with their romance three years ago. She explained her heartfelt decision to reveal her new romance to the public at the time.
Speaking to the Mail, she said: "When I downloaded the picture, I was struck by the lens flare — when the light hits the back of the lens. I hardly recognised myself, I looked so happy. I haven't looked like that for a long time.
"I put it on Instagram without really thinking. When I woke up the next day, loads of people had started to follow me. Then a publicist I use for my work called to say, 'You've got a new boyfriend'.
"I thought, 'Everyone still labels me Ben's ex' but I'm not that Abby any more. I'm me. I've got my two girls. My life. I've finally met a really nice man. I want to be known as 'Abby the good photographer' or 'Abby the great mum'. I'm very different. I'm stronger."