Tina Knowles, the mother of global superstar Beyoncé, has revealed that she quietly battled breast cancer—but is now thankfully cancer-free.

In an interview with People tied to the release of her new memoir Matriarch, Knowles opened up about her private health scare and why she decided to share it publicly.

“I struggled with whether I would include that journey in the book because I’m very private,” she explained. “But I chose to share it because I believe there are important lessons for other women. As women, we often get so caught up in life that we neglect our own health. Getting tested saved my life.”

Knowles was diagnosed in July 2023 with stage 1 breast cancer after doctors discovered a tumor in her left breast. She emphasized the importance of regular mammograms, noting that she had unintentionally missed her screening during the pandemic.

“I thought I had gone, but I hadn’t,” she said. “They canceled my appointment due to COVID and said they’d call when testing resumed—I just assumed it happened. You can’t make assumptions when it comes to your health.”

Following the diagnosis, Knowles underwent surgery to remove the tumor, along with a breast reduction. Today, she’s in recovery and thriving.

“I’m doing great—cancer-free and incredibly blessed that God allowed me to catch it early,” she shared.

She also reflected on the support of her daughters during the ordeal. “Beyoncé stayed positive and focused on it like a mission,” she recalled. “And Solange told me, ‘Mom, we are going to take care of this.’”

In the midst of her health challenges, Knowles also finalized her divorce from actor Richard Lawson. The couple, who wed in 2015, reached a settlement in August 2023. As part of the agreement, Knowles will pay Lawson $300,000, but neither party will receive spousal support. The settlement also includes a non-disparagement clause protecting both families.

Knowles filed for divorce in July 2023, citing irreconcilable differences. The two did not share any children together. She has since requested that her legal name be restored to Celestine Knowles.