MasterChef winner and Wahaca co-founder Thomasina Miers has revealed that she recently underwent a mastectomy due to breast cancer.
Miers, 50, who won the BBC cooking competition in 2005, shared the news on Instagram with her 150,000 followers. She posted a series of hospital photos, explaining that what she initially thought was a cyst turned out to be cancerous.
"So… I had a mastectomy last Friday," Miers wrote in her post. "Originally I'd had a cyst there but the 2nd (& 3rd) lump turned out not to be one at all. Quite the reverse. They were bad asses."
She emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for any breast lump, regardless of initial assumptions. "Always check a lump EVEN if you think it's a cyst and do it promptly!!!", she advised.
Miers expressed gratitude for the care she has received from medical professionals, as well as for the support of her family and friends. "Prognosis so far is good. Seem to have stumbled upon some incredible doctors and I am in awe of them," she stated. She also thanked her husband and mother for their unwavering support during this "sudden roller coaster."
Miers, a prominent figure in the culinary world, has written a recipe column for The Guardian and hosted television shows, including "Mexican Food Made Simple." She was recognized with an OBE in 2019 for her contributions to the food industry.
In previous public statements, Miers has advocated for environmental sustainability in food production. In 2023, she called for a reduction in meat consumption and promoted regenerative farming practices, viewing food as a potential force for positive change for both human and environmental health.