Harding went public on Wednesday with her diagnosis in an emotional Instagram post, after a long absence from the platform.
“I understand that this can be shocking to read on social media and that is actually not my intention,” she wrote. “But last week it was mentioned online that I was seen in the hospital, so I feel now is the time to let people know what’s going on and this is the best way I can think of to do this.”
Harding said she was diagnosed earlier this year and learned weeks ago that it was “advanced” and spread to other parts of her body.
She says she is currently undergoing weekly chemotherapy treatments and “fighting as hard as I can.”
She thanked her support system and healthcare providers, and called them “heroes.”
“I do my very best to stay positive and will keep you informed here of how I proceed,” she said. “In the meantime, I hope you all understand and respect my request for privacy in this difficult time.”
Harding was a member of the English pop group Girls Aloud, which was active for much of the early 2000s.
Their last album, “Out of Control”, was released in 2008. They also released a jubilee single in 2012.
The band also included Cheryl Cole, Nadine Coyle, Nicola Roberts and Kimberley Walsh, who have offered words of support since Harding revealed her health struggles.
“You have always been able to achieve miracles when needed !!” Coyle wrote in a response to Harding’s message. “I’m here for the whole way and will always be !!!”
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