Tennis legend Chris Evert is opening up about her stage 1 ovarian cancer diagnosis, co-writing an article with ESPN anchor Chris McKendry.

“I wanted to share my stage 1 ovarian cancer diagnosis and the story behind it as a way to help others,” Evert wrote in a statement to Twitter. “I feel very lucky that they caught it early and expect positive results from my chemo plan.”

According to her ESPN story, Evert was diagnosed with stage 1C ovarian cancer following a preventative hysterectomy and has begun her first of six rounds of chemotherapy.

Evert says her sister Jeanne Evert Dubin will serve as her inspiration during her treatment. A former professional tennis player as well, Evert’s sister Jeanne died of ovarian cancer in 2020 at 62 years old.

“I’ll be thinking of her. And she’ll get me through it,” says Evert.

The former tennis champion’s message to the public is to be proactive and know your family’s health history.

“Be your own advocate. Know your family’s history,” says Evert. “Have total awareness of your body, follow your gut and be aware of changes. Don’t try to be a crusader and think this will pass.”

Evert will participate in ESPN’s coverage of January’s Australian Open from her home.