Ria Valk, the beloved 84-year-old singer and actress, has faced another health crisis as she was diagnosed with cancer for the second time in early 2025. Known for her bright personality and comedic songs, Valk's recent experiences have tested her resilience and optimism.
In January 2025, Valk felt a hard lump under her skin, a shocking reminder of her previous battles with skin and breast cancer. "I thought: damn, how can this be? Didn’t they remove everything?" she expressed candidly to De Telegraaf. The news was particularly distressing given her history of cancer treatments, which had left her feeling hopeful about her health.
Following the discovery of the lump, Valk underwent a series of examinations. Initially, the doctors did not find anything unusual, which left her feeling perplexed. "At first glance, they found nothing, even though I could feel it clearly," she recalled. However, as further tests were conducted, it became evident that the cancer had returned.
On January 31, 2025, Valk underwent surgery, which she described as successful. "They even reconstructed my breast with my own fat tissue; they did an amazing job," she said, showing gratitude for the medical team that assisted her. Despite the successful operation, Valk was informed that she would need to undergo radiation therapy as part of her ongoing treatment.
Starting on April 7, 2025, Valk will receive radiation treatments every weekday. She has taken the time to discuss the procedure in detail with her doctors, ensuring she understands what to expect. "Every day I've been there. Last Friday, I had to practice as if it were the real thing: I had to undress and lie down just like during the treatment—very still, not moving," she explained, demonstrating her commitment to facing this challenge head-on.
Reflecting on the past two years, Valk noted the toll that her health struggles have taken on her life. "It’s unbelievable. I’ve spent a lifetime performing on stage, and now I’ve been in and out of hospitals for examinations and treatments for the last two years," she lamented. Despite these challenges, she maintains a positive outlook, stating, "Of course, it’s not always easy, but I’m not the type to just sit down and give up. Besides the radiation I still have to undergo, I’m actually doing pretty well."
Valk's journey has resonated with many, showcasing her strength and determination. She has made a conscious decision to focus on her recovery, stating, "I felt it was necessary to direct my attention and energy towards my healing. For that reason, I will be taking it easy for a while." She has also attended significant events, such as the premiere of Malle Babbe and the funeral of her friend Rob de Nijs, despite her ongoing health battles.
The singer's story is a poignant reminder of the struggles many face with cancer, and her candidness about her experiences has inspired countless fans. Valk's ability to remain upbeat, even in the face of adversity, speaks volumes about her character. As she prepares for her radiation treatments, she hopes to emerge stronger and healthier, ready to return to the stage and share her joy with her audience once again.
As she embarks on this next phase of her treatment, Valk's fans and supporters rally behind her, wishing her a swift recovery. Her resilience continues to shine as she navigates the complexities of her health, proving that even in difficult times, hope and positivity can prevail.
