SNP MSP Ruth Maguire reveals cervical cancer diagnosis

MSP Ruth Maguire has revealed she has been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer.

The SNP MSP for Cunninghame South said she would be taking a medical leave of absence from public duties and frontline parliamentary work for treatment and recovery.

She said this would be with immediate effect.

The politician said that although her condition is serious, doctors believe it is treatable.

In a statement, she said: "On Tuesday 27 April 2021 I received the difficult news that I had been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer.

"Having now had time to process what this means for me and talk things over with my family, I feel it is only right that I share this information with my constituents.

"Although my condition is serious, doctors believe it is treatable. Therefore, with immediate effect, I will be taking a medical leave of absence from public duties and frontline parliamentary work for treatment and recovery."

'Loving family'

She said that her parliamentary office in Irvine would continue to operate, with her team available to assist Cunninghame South constituents.

The MSP added: "I am eternally grateful for the support and care of my loving family and friends and, of course, our NHS.

"For now, I will concentrate on doing everything I can to get well and strong again and I thank everyone for their understanding.

"Being re-elected to serve my community is a privilege that I hold dearly every single day and I look forward to when I can resume my full duties."

Ms Maguire was elected as MSP for Cunninghame South in 2016 and re-elected earlier this month.

During the 2016 to 2021 term, she served as convener of the Scottish Parliament's equalities and human rights committee.