Hannah Wants, a prominent figure in the British DJ scene, has publicly shared her challenging journey with recurrent breast cancer. The 37-year-old Birmingham native, known for her electrifying sets and Radio 1 residency, revealed in a heartfelt Instagram post that she is facing her fourth cancer diagnosis. This revelation comes eight years after her initial diagnosis, a period punctuated by three separate recurrences. While she chose to share her first two diagnoses publicly, the third remained private. However, the impact of this fourth diagnosis prompted her to open up about her ongoing battle, describing it as an “unexpected, monumental shock.”
Hannah’s candid post delves into the emotional and logistical upheaval caused by this new diagnosis. Her life’s trajectory has been abruptly altered, demanding a complete realignment of her time, energy, and focus on her physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Despite the daunting circumstances, her message resonates with resilience and a determination to face this challenge head-on. She encourages others battling cancer not to lose hope and to embrace the support of loved ones.
The DJ’s post goes beyond her personal struggle, offering a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. She urges her followers to cherish their relationships, expressing love and appreciation for the people in their lives. “Tomorrow is never promised,” she writes, emphasizing the importance of presence and connection. This sentiment underscores the profound impact of her health journey, transforming it into a call for greater appreciation for life’s simple joys and the value of human connection.
The outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists following Hannah’s announcement has been immense. Marvin Humes of JLS fame offered words of encouragement and strength, while DJ Spoony praised her post for its positivity and powerful message. Numerous fans echoed these sentiments, sending prayers and messages of hope. This widespread support reflects the impact Hannah has made on the music community and beyond, highlighting her resilience and inspiring others facing similar challenges.
Hannah’s career has been marked by remarkable success. From her early beginnings at the age of 18, she has risen to become a globally recognized DJ, performing at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide, from Australia to Ibiza. Her launch of the Etiquette label in 2019 further cemented her impact on the electronic music scene. This venture included an intimate club tour across the UK and Ireland, showcasing her versatility and desire to connect with her audience on a deeper level. She expressed a preference for smaller, more intimate venues, appreciating the closer connection fostered between the DJ and the crowd.
Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer type in the UK, largely affects women over 50, though younger women and, in rare instances, men can also be diagnosed. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing its spread. While a lump or thickened breast tissue is often the first noticeable sign, other symptoms include changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge (potentially blood-streaked), lumps or swelling in the armpits, skin dimpling, rashes around the nipple, and changes in nipple appearance, such as inversion. Any such changes warrant immediate medical consultation. Hannah’s openness about her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and early detection in the fight against breast cancer.
