Despite facing criticism, Elle Macpherson stands up for holistic cancer treatment.

In 2017, Macpherson received a breast cancer diagnosis.

Despite facing criticism, Elle Macpherson stands up for holistic cancer treatment.
Despite facing criticism, Elle Macpherson stands up for holistic cancer treatment.

Elle Macpherson is explaining her choice to use a holistic approach to combat her cancer.

The supermodel, who was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, sparked a discussion about the effectiveness of traditional versus holistic treatments in her journey towards remission.

Macpherson admitted Monday morning on TODAY Australia that she had chosen to disregard the medical advice of her doctors and opt for a more holistic approach to fight a HER2+ oestrogen receptive intraductal carcinoma diagnosis.

She expressed her satisfaction with the backlash generated by the initial interview, stating that it had sparked conversation and discussion, leading to awareness and growth. Although she found the backlash uncomfortable, she believed it was worthwhile in promoting important discussions.

Elle Macpherson in a black lacy dress soft smiles as she crosses her arms
Elle Macpherson not only revealed the shocking news that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 but that she chose a more holistic treatment plan to fight the disease. (Gisela Schober/Getty Images)

Macpherson emphasized that her book, which she wrote about her 60 years of experiences, including difficult ones like relationship breakdown and alcoholism, is not solely about her cancer.

"The chapter in the book isn't about cancer, but rather about making decisions in the face of fear and adversity. The book is more than just that one chapter, and the decision made isn't as important as the journey that led to it."

Depending on your location, treatment plans may vary.

"The treatment protocol for breast cancer and other cancers varies from country to country. However, it's important to note that the book's focus on cancer is distorted, which can detract from the other valuable information it contains."

Elle Macpherson in a lace white top stares directly at the camera
Elle Macpherson emphasized that her book is not so much about cancer or other specific events from her life as it is about the path she took to get there. (Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

Macpherson explained her decision to follow a holistic treatment plan, citing her consultation with 32 medical doctors and experts before choosing not to undergo traditional treatment for breast cancer, including a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy.

"I received a lot of medical advice on my breast cancer case, and it was fascinating because each doctor had a different opinion on treatment. There was no clear path, and there were no guarantees either way. I made a decision based on the information I gathered and what felt right for me. However, I want to emphasize that I am not giving advice to others. I am simply sharing my experience."

"And so I just made a decision based on all the information that I had gathered, and what felt right for me. And it's important to mention that I am not giving advice to other people. I'm sharing my experience." — Elle Macpherson

Elle MacPherson walks the runway in a sheer black top with a black blazer
Supermodel Elle Macpherson walks the runway during the Melbourne Fashion Festival in March 2024. (Naomi Rahim/WireImage)

Macpherson empathizes with others facing hardships by putting herself in their shoes and considering how she would handle the uncertainty of her cancer returning.

"Anyone who experiences any medical adversity or disease must possess the same spirit. It's essential to research, take care of yourself, maintain a positive attitude, and the way you choose to treat yourself is crucial."

Perhaps a combination of treatments is the best approach for most people, as Macpherson pointed out. This conversation is crucial, and it's not just about one or the other option. It's likely a combination that works in many cases.

Elle Macpherson in a black lace plunging dress soft smiles ont he carpet
The 60-year-old beauty admitted that perhaps a combination of traditional and holistic treatment might be the way forward "in many cases." (Getty Images)

The Australian beauty's book, "Elle," is currently available in Australia and will be released in the United States this fall.

by Caroline Thayer

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