Image via Tessa James’ Instagram

Former Home & Away star Tessa James has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

The 23-year-old, who is married to rugby league player Nate Myles, shared the news via a statement to The Daily Telegraph:

“Former Home and Away actor, Tessa James today announced she has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” the statement said. “She has returned home to the Gold Coast to be with her husband, Gold Coast Titans Co-captain, Nate Myles”.

“Tessa will be undergoing chemotherapy over the next few months,” the pair said in the statement. “Tessa and Nate would like to thank all for their well wishes and would ask for privacy during this very difficult time.

James, who played Nicole in Home & Away for three years, has reportedly returned home to Queensland from the USA where she’s been living and pursuing acting opportunities.

She will start chemotherapy shortly.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the same form of cancer that Delta Goodrem was diagnosed with at the age of 18.

According to the Leukaemia Foundation:

The cancer affects 550 Australians every year, one third of whom are aged between 15 and 30.

Our thoughts are with Tessa and her family and we’re wishing her all the best.