Labour MP Dawn Butler to take time off after breast cancer diagnosis

52-year-old Ms Butler made a public statement to social media on Monday morning about her breast cancer diagnosis as well as her recent surgery.

Ms Butler added that the breast cancer cells had been discovered at a very early stage so it was something she would “get through and over”.

She will need to take time off to fully recover.

The MP went on: “Everything stood still as it does when you hear the dreaded C-word – it is a shock but an early diagnosis means that it is something that I will get through and over.

"The NHS has caught my cancer early, the operation was a complete success, and I will make a full recovery.

“However, I now have to take time off work for my recovery. Everyone who knows me knows that I am a workaholic and I love what I do – but unless I listen to medical advice and recover well, I will not be able to give my best.

Labour MP Dawn Butler
UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor

“I would like to thank Parliament, the Labour Party, local members and my team for their support throughout.”

Ms Butler concluded her statement by thanking the NHS and its “amazing workers”.

While receiving treatment at the Royal London Hospital she said she had seen “first-hand how the NHS is under enormous pressure”.

Labour leader Keir Starmer
Joe Giddens

She added: “The Royal London seemed full, people were waiting on chairs in A&E for beds, the staff were exhausted in the NHS and many were suffering from PTSD.

“Covid-19 has taken a lot out of them.

“So many people have missed appointments (many through no fault of their own), results are delayed and operations postponed.

“If we are to show our appreciation for the amazing NHS workers and rebuild our health service then we need to properly invest in the NHS, both structurally and in the very people who keep it functioning.”

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told Ms Butler the party was supporting her following the cancer diagnosis.

He tweeted: “Dawn, your bravery, strength and determination shine through.

“I am sorry you’re going through this, but know that I, and the whole Party, are behind you.”