Camilla Franks, owner and creative director of Camilla, has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Franks is under the care and guidance of one of Australia’s leading oncologists and she will begin treatment very shortly.
CEO Jane McNally said that as a new mother, Franks' first priorities are her health and family.
“We have no doubt that Camilla will face the challenging weeks ahead with her usual determination and exceptional fighting spirit. The love and support of her entire tribe is with her always.”
Franks has only recently returned from maternity leave.
She intends to manage the creative direction of the brand throughout her treatment, alongside her head of design Jenna Redfern and design director Natalie Wood.
Franks is supported by a team of 250 in Australia and a further 1000 through her long-time manufacturing partner in India.
“Over the last twelve months we’ve been focused on rapid expansion plans for the business and Camilla is entrusting us to continue this journey while she undergoes her treatment," McNally said.
“We will continue to build on the strong foundations which have been established.”
Franks echoed her sentiment.
“I start on this journey humble but resilient; I would be lying if I said I wasn’t scared but I am fearlessly determined to do whatever it takes by focusing on my body, mind and spirit as I take my first trusting steps towards recovery.
"Many of my wider Camilla tribe have already been on this journey themselves and I know will be an inspiration to me as I begin mine.
"As you know, my beautiful daughter Luna arrived a few months ago, and it is her smile and warmth that remind me this is a challenge I will embark on with courage – for her and my fiancé as well as myself.
"With the incredible love and support of my little family I have no doubt I will beat this.
"I am so grateful for those around me, who have already been such an amazing support to me following this news.”