Brooks Ayers Reveals Stage 3 Cancer Diagnosis

Vicki Gunvalson responds to the devastating news.

By Sarv Kreindler Oct 3, 2014, 1:12 PM ET

Vicki Gunvalson and Brooks Ayers have had their share of ups and downs over the last few years, as their on-again off-again relationship played out over past seasons of The Real Housewives of Orange County. But now Brooks may be facing his toughest battle yet. He has revealed to Radar Online that he's been diagnosed with Stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, an aggressive form of cancer. This comes on the heels of an initial diagnosis last year.

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"I am very sad about the recent diagnosis of Brooks's cancer reoccurrence," Vicki told People. "It really puts life in perspective and makes you realize how important health, family and friends are during this time. Thank you for respecting his privacy and for all your thoughts and prayers for Brooks during this time."

For his part, Brooks was welcoming of the good wishes. "I appreciate the prayers, support, and positive vibes from anyone who would wish to send them," he told Radar. "Let me assure you that I am going to remain positive and continue to battle this disease vigorously with much tenacity along with seeking the appropriate medical care…I am determined to fight this horrible disease and am surrounded by love and support from people who truly care about me."

Although Vicki revealed at the RHOC reunion that she and Brooks were moving in together, she appeared to have changed her mind a little while later when rumors that Brooks had cheated on her surfaced. At that time, Vicki told People that "Brooks can date anyone he wants to. I am not married to Brooks, nor engaged--nor are we living together."

Watch Tamra's sit-down with Brooks from the last season of RHOC.

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[Sources: People, Radar Online]