Six-time Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy has announced that his cancer is terminal, with doctors estimating he has two to four years to live. The 48-year-old Scot revealed his diagnosis in an interview with the Sunday Times, sharing that he has primary cancer in his prostate that has spread to his bones, classified as stage four.

Despite the devastating news, Sir Chris remains characteristically positive and courageous. “As unnatural as it feels, this is nature,” he said. “You remind yourself, aren’t I lucky that there is medicine I can take that will fend this off for as long as possible?”

Later, on Instagram, Sir Chris reassured fans, “I’m feeling fit, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me. Onwards!”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting praised Sir Chris’s bravery, saying, “The whole nation will be cheering him on now and sending love.” Fellow athletes, including Mark Cavendish and Dame Kelly Holmes, also expressed support.

Sir Chris’s cancer was discovered last year after a routine scan for shoulder pain revealed a tumor. His wife, Sarra, had recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Sir Chris won six Olympic golds between 2004 and 2012 and holds 11 world and 43 World Cup titles. He retired from cycling in 2013 and has since worked as a BBC pundit and commentator.

Simon Richardson, editor of Cycling Weekly, called Sir Chris “the epitome of the Olympic champion.” Michael Hutchinson described him as a “talisman” who has inspired with his lack of self-pity.

Sir Chris has written several children’s books and is set to publish his memoir next month. He continues to work, co-presenting the World Track Championships coverage on BBC Two.

As Sir Chris faces this new challenge, his courage, positivity, and appreciation for life serve as an inspiration to all.