Personal Journey with Cancer: Sylvie Meis Reveals Her Struggle in 2009
German television presenter Sylvie Meis reflects on her life's most challenging year, sixteen years following her battle with breast cancer. In a recent podcast episode of "May Way," the 47-year-old revealed the story of her personal cancer journey, which marked a significant turning point in her life.
Back in 2009, just days after celebrating her 31st birthday, Meis discovered a lump in her breast, an unexpected shock akin to an earthquake. Despite her fear, Meis chose to undergo surgery against her doctor's advice, a decision she believes saved her life.
Following the surgery, Meis returned to the limelight within a few months, sporting a wig, eventually revealing a short haircut - a remarkable feat during chemotherapy. Her husband at the time, footballer Rafael van der Vaart, provided unwavering support during this difficult period. However, their relationship subsequently evolved, with Meis asserting her independence.
Despite their divorce in 2013, Meis and van der Vaart maintain a cordial relationship. "We're a happy blended family," she says. Today, Meis expresses deep gratitude for her journey, acknowledging that while it was arduous, it shaped her into the woman she is today.
[1] In May 2025, Sylvie Meis openly shared her breast cancer journey, signaling a continued focus on health and personal well-being.[4] Sylvie Meis remains a figure of interest in popular culture, as indicated by her presence in various social media posts by Ashly Rae. However, specifics about her current personal life are not frequently discussed in recent media.
[1] For years, Sylvie Meis has been a vocal advocate for medical-conditions like breast-cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection and personal health-and-wellness.[2] In a world where mental-health has become a prevalent topic, Meis also shares her experiences to support women's-health and promote meaningful conversations about the psychological impact of cancer diagnoses.[3] By speaking about her journey, Meis hopes to inspire others, reinforcing that understanding and embracing one's challenges can lead to growth and self-discovery.[4] The stories of courageous individuals like Sylvie Meis contribute significantly to our collective knowledge of science, providing valuable resources for the study and treatment of cancer and other medical-conditions.
