Tessa James Releases Statement, Thanks Fans for Support After Cancer Diagnosis

Tessa James has spoken up since her cancer diagnosis has become public. The former “Home and Away” star thanked fans for their support.

On Sunday, news broke that the 23-year-old actress is suffering from Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer targeting the lymphatic system.

“Thank you for all your love, support and prayer during this time. It has simply been overwhelming. I can’t thank you enough. All my love xxx,” she posted a text image on Instagram.

James, who found fame as Nicole Franklin in the Australian soap opera since her first appearance in 2008 until her last in 2011, has been living in Los Angeles to audition for U.S. roles. However, she returned to the Gold Coast to receive treatment.

“Tessa will be undergoing chemotherapy over the next few months,” her rep said in a statement to the Daily Telegraph. “Tessa and Nate would like to thank all for their well wishes and would ask for any privacy during this very difficult time.”

James is married to Gold Coast Titans rugby league footballer Nate Myles since December 2011.

Celebrities and James’ fans have sent their support to the actress online.

Love you Tess. Sending all our love and support from the Lewis clan xoxo
— Lincoln Lewis (@linc_lewis) September 21, 2014

tessacharis Sending my dear friend love and strength right now and every step of the way. Love you… http://t.co/UtP5NMl4QS — esther anderson (@AndersonJEsther) September 21, 2014

Sending #TessaJames all my love, strength & courage. You can do this. Know that there's so much love & support from everyone for you xx
— Sally Obermeder (@SallyObermeder) September 21, 2014

So sad to hear that Nate Myles' wife, Tessa James who used to play Nicole in home and away has cancer :( Best wishes with treatment — Elizaaa♥ (@elizaa_love7) September 21, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with Tessa James who played Nicole Franklin on H&A and has been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma :( >>
— Simone (@homeandaway1988) September 21, 2014