The music community was stunned on 26 October by the shock announcement from Nightwish frontwoman, Floor Jansen. The Dutch singer revealed in a personal letter via Instagram that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Holding no details back, she shared with her fans that thanks to early detection, her prognosis was positive, yet there was still a road of healing ahead. She explained that she would need surgery and further tests and would provide updates as her journey continued. Jansen also chose to remind everyone of the importance of regular mammograms. Telling women to get checked and men to remind the ladies in their life to do these life-saving tests regularly.

The message prompted an outpouring of support and well wishes from fellow musicians:

“Oh my god. All my strength goes to you right now.” – Alissa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy)

“Wow…. I am very sorry to hear this! Wishing you a speedy recovery! You are strong and will beat this f*cking cancer” – Simone Simons (Epica)

“All the love and every bit of best wishes, you will overcome all this as the Warrior you are… Fuck cancer!!” – Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil)

“All the love and strength to you” – Charlotte Wessels (Delain)

Fans also expressed their shock over the news and commented their support. The post has received more than 8,000 comments in total. And those messages were near unanimous. That Jansen was strong and would defeat cancer. It seems there was no doubt in anyone’s mind that she would emerge triumphant from this battle. Yet, everyone still waited with bated breath for more news.

That news finally came on Saturday via her Instagram:

“Great news! I am cancer free… it hasn’t spread…”

The unrestrained joy in the comments below her post is abundant. After three weeks, which felt like an eternity, the most wonderful outcome has sparked such emotion and relief. People admitting to crying tears of joy, and heart emojis as far as the eye can see.

But the good news kept coming. Jansen has also confirmed that she will definitely be joining Nightwish for their upcoming European tour. She had expressed her hope in her initial announcement that would be the case, but now, it is a certainty:

“…I have no doubt the shows will give me the power push I need to rock with all of you on the upcoming European tour.”

A stunning victory for Jansen and women everywhere. Once again, she is leading by example with her strength, resilience, and above all else, her rational and sensible nature. Early detection has likely saved her life and she wants the world to know. Taking her cancer scare and turning it into a message of hope for women everywhere, she has encouraged them to get tested, and no doubt saved countless lives.

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.