Tina Knowles, the mother of music icons Beyoncé and Solange Knowles, has recently shared a personal and important revelation: her battle with breast cancer in 2024. The 71-year-old matriarch disclosed her diagnosis in an exclusive interview and within the pages of her new memoir, “Matriarch,” offering a message of hope and a crucial reminder about the significance of regular health screenings.
Tina Knowles Announces Cancer Diagnosis
Tina Knowles revealed that she was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in her left breast in July 2024. This discovery came after she had delayed her routine mammogram, a decision she now emphasizes the importance of not making. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, her appointment was canceled, and subsequently, life’s demands led her to mistakenly believe she had undergone the screening. This delay, she acknowledges, could have potentially led to a later, more serious diagnosis.
Tina Knowles’ Cancer Scare
In her memoir, Tina Knowles recounts the moment she received the news, a period coinciding with the launch of Beyonce’s hair care line, Ce’cred, for which she serves as vice president, and the final stages of writing her book. Despite the shock, Knowles chose to keep her diagnosis private initially, only sharing the information with her daughters after further investigations. She had experienced false alarms with mammograms in the past, which contributed to her initial hesitation in sharing her concerns.
However, when doctors expressed particular concern about a mass in her left breast, the reality of the situation became clearer. Following an urgent call from her doctor during a meeting, Knowles faced her diagnosis. She underwent a lumpectomy in August 2024 to remove the cancerous tumor. Fortunately, the cancer was detected early and had not spread, allowing for successful treatment. Knowles is now cancer-free and feels incredibly blessed for the early detection.
Throughout her cancer journey, Knowles found immense support in her daughters, Beyoncé and Solange, as well as her niece Angie Beyince and former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland. She describes her daughters as her “team,” highlighting their unwavering support and positive attitudes. Beyonce, she noted, approached the situation with focus and determination, ensuring her mother received the best care. Solange’s comforting presence and even humor helped lighten the difficult moments.
A Second Opinion Saved Her Life
Knowles also emphasizes the importance of seeking a second opinion, a lesson she learned firsthand when she felt a hospital doctor was dismissive. With Beyonce’s intervention, she consulted a top breast surgery specialist and opted for a breast reduction surgery to further mitigate risk.
Her experience has motivated her to advocate for regular mammograms, particularly for Black women who may face disparities in healthcare. She stresses that early detection can significantly improve outcomes and encourages everyone to prioritize their health screenings. Knowles hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others to be proactive about their health and to find hope in the face of a cancer diagnosis. She is now focused on living each day to the fullest, feeling healthier and more appreciative of life.
Tina Knowles Message
Knowles’ message is clear: prioritize regular mammograms. Her own experience of delaying her screening due to the pandemic serves as a stark reminder of how easily these crucial appointments can be overlooked amidst life’s demands. She emphasizes that early detection, even at Stage 0, offers the best chance for a successful treatment. By sharing her story, particularly within her memoir, “Matriarch,” Knowles aims to instill hope and encourage proactive health management, especially among Black women who may face systemic disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. Her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy and seeking second opinions to ensure comprehensive and timely care.
