Vanessa Hudgens has opened up about how her father is battling stage four cancer in an emotional speech.
The actress revealed her father Greg's diagnosis at the Industry Dance Awards, as she accepted the award for Breakthrough Performer. She also shared that her boyfriend, actor Austin Butler, had sadly lost his mother to cancer last year. The event was held to benefit the The Circle of Hope charity, which supports dancers that have survived cancer.
According to Entertainment Tonight, Vanessa said: "Last year, my boyfriend, Austin, lost his mom, Lori, to cancer, and my dad has just been recently diagnosed with stage four cancer. Let me tell you: I hate cancer. I hate cancer with every cell of my being."
Understandably getting choked up on stage, she dedicated her award to Austin's Mum and her Dad: "This award, it means a lot to me but I dedicate it to my boyfriend's mom, Lori, my dad, and to all the families out there who are struggling with this, because it really takes a strong person and a strong family to be able to help those out who are going through this."
This is the first time Vanessa has publicly spoken out about her father's diagnosis - although three weeks ago, she instagrammed a photo of herself with him asking for prayers from her fans.