has described being diagnosed with two in around seven months as "like a bomb going off in your life".

The Duchess of York, 65, was and, in January last year, received the crushing news . The mum of two confessed her "mind went to some dark places" following each diagnosis.

Speaking this week, she said: "It was hard. I'm generally a positive person but cancer is like a bomb going off in your life. One diagnosis is enough to deal with but I had two in the space of a year. I don't mind admitting that my mind went to some dark places, reflecting on my own mortality."

Sarah, known as "Fergie", reflected on her journey in a tell-all interview to the media, approximately one year on following her malignant melanoma bombshell. A mole removed from her body was sent for tests, which confirmed the Duchess of York had one of the most serious forms of skin cancer.

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In the interview with , the royal, who is also an author, said: "My family have been an immense support to me through this period. I've used meditation and mindfulness to help stay positive and balanced."

The duchess, often praised for her effervescent attitude, earlier this month posted a new year message to her 760,000 followers urging them to make "joy bubbles". She alluded to her excitement to welcome her fourth grandchild this year, as .

And, it is this vivacious hope despite adversity which has boosted Sarah's popularity, so much so her approval rating in has soared. It is believed King Charles is very grateful for Fergie's role as a conduit between him and his scandal-hit younger brother Prince Andrew, her former husband.

Although Sarah divorced Andrew in 1996 after an eight-year marriage, they still live together in the Royal Lodge, a Grade II listed house in Windsor Great Park. However, due to his links to an alleged Chinese spy.