Catherine Marks, who has worked with artists like The Killers and Alanis Morissette, shared a candid health update on social media recently and was met with support
An award-winning music producer made an announcement about her health earlier this week. She opened up about her diagnosis alongside a photo of herself in a hospital bed after seeking treatment for “debilitating pain”.
Catherine Marks, who has worked with acts including The Killers, has shared that doctors identified “early-stage” cancer after enduring pain for three years. As reported by the Express, Catherine, who said a fibroid the size of her uterus was discovered prior, reflected on her initial symptoms, saying her back pain was mistaken for a herniated disc and a consequence of ageing.
The Australian-born producer, who lives in the UK, took to Instagram on Wednesday to open up about her health to her followers. Catherine received a flood of support after sharing that she had a full abdominal hysterectomy.
She started by saying: “This isn’t an easy one to share, but after speaking with so many other women, and the doctors along this journey, I’ve realised how important it is to talk openly; especially about the things we’re often taught to endure in silence. Since late 2022, I’d been living with persistent, often debilitating pain.
“It was first dismissed as a herniated disc and ‘just age,’ but deep down, I knew something wasn’t right. After months of pushing for answers, an ultrasound finally revealed a fibroid the size of my uterus. What followed were 18 exhausting months: intense pain, excessive blood loss, tests, operations, transfusions and just enough energy to get through work…barely anything else.”
Catherine revealed: “Eventually, last December, doctors found early-stage cancer and as a result, I recently underwent a full abdominal hysterectomy. Recovery will be slow but steady, and I’m deeply grateful to the brilliant oncology and gynae team at Queen Charlotte and all the incredible NHS nurses and doctors who have taken care of me.”
Highlighting what she’d learnt, she shared: “This journey has taught me something vital: trust your instincts. As women, we often downplay our pain or dismiss our needs. But listening to your body and advocating for yourself can be life-saving.”
Reflecting on her experience, she confessed: “There has been space in this healing to reflect; on the toll it’s taken, and the quiet grief of what might have been. I have given a lot to my career, believing there would always be time… Life has had other plans… but no regrets. Still, I feel enormous gratitude; for catching it early, for the support I’ve received, and for the kindness and understanding of everyone I’ve been working with throughout this process.”
Signing off, Catherine stated: “Now, I’m taking the time I need to heal, rebuild, and prepare for what comes next. with clarity, strength, and renewed purpose. I look forward to returning with energy, creativity, and a deeper understanding of what matters most. What comes next feels precious.”
The outpouring of support was immediate, with Clara Amfo commenting: “Salute for trusting yourself above everything, sending so much love x.” Girls Aloud member Nadine Coyle also showed her support, posting: “Sending so much love to you!!!”.
Catherine’s career began under the guidance of Grammy-winning producer Flood. Since then, she’s won various awards, including Music Producers Guild Awards for Breakthrough Producer of the Year in 2016 and for Producer of the Year in 2018, as well as Producer of the Year at the A&R Awards in 2023.
She’s worked on songs like Wolf Alice’s Moaning Lisa Smile, as well as albums for Boygenius and Foals. Additionally, she’s also said to have collaborated with the likes of the Big Moon and Alanis Morissette in her career to date.
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.
Source: Mirror
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