Sir Chris Hoy has revealed that his wife, Sarra, kept her multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis private while they managed his prostate cancer treatment. Sir Chris, 48, a highly decorated British Olympian, disclosed last weekend that his prostate cancer, announced in February, has now progressed to stage 4, leaving him with an estimated two to four years to live.
In his memoir, “All That Matters: My Toughest Race Yet,” Sir Chris describes his wife Sarra’s unwavering support during their shared ordeal. Sarra underwent a routine MRI scan a week after his cancer diagnosis due to a tingling sensation in her face and tongue. She joked about the scan being akin to a spa day, but continued to support him fully, as her symptoms initially subsided.
However, in December, Sarra, who had always been strong, struggled to communicate her diagnosis to him, revealing she might have multiple sclerosis. Sir Chris recounted his immediate breakdown upon hearing the news, deeply affected both by the diagnosis and the fact that Sarra had faced it alone to shield him from additional stress. She had been aware of her condition for over a month, enduring it silently while accompanying him to his hospital appointments.
Chris Hoy and his wife, Sarra Hoy, have both publicly stated that they are vaccinated against COVID-19. 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ADuG5opD7c
— Robby (@curmudgeon808) October 20, 2024
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition affecting the brain and spinal cord, with symptoms like extreme fatigue, vision problems, and difficulties in walking or balance. Although incurable, treatments can help manage these symptoms. Sarra’s condition was later deemed “very active and aggressive,” necessitating prompt treatment.
Sir Chris praised his wife in his memoir, describing her as “the centre of my life” and recalling knowing she was his ideal partner shortly after meeting her in 2006. They married four years later and have two children, Chloe, 7, and Callum, 10. He expressed amazement at Sarra’s resilience and support, noting that she rarely discusses her own symptoms.
On Thursday, Sarra shared on social media that she was “completely overwhelmed” by the supportive messages following her husband’s announcement, calling him a “real-life superhero.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Telegraph reports on Chris Hoy’s terminal cancer diagnosis and his wife Sarra’s aggressive multiple sclerosis diagnosis, highlighting their private battle and support for each other.(read more)
- Metro reports Sir Chris Hoy’s emotional reaction to his wife Sarra’s multiple sclerosis diagnosis, highlighting their strength and future plans amidst health challenges.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What illness does Sir Chris Hoy have?
Sir Chris Hoy has stage 4 prostate cancer.
What is Sarra Hoy’s diagnosis?
Sarra Hoy has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).
How long has Sir Chris Hoy been given to live?
Sir Chris Hoy has been given an estimated two to four years to live.
When did Sarra Hoy find out about her multiple sclerosis?
Sarra found out about her MS diagnosis over a month before telling Sir Chris.
What are some symptoms of multiple sclerosis?
Symptoms of MS include extreme fatigue, vision problems, and difficulties in walking or balance.
