Princess Mary's sisters become charity ambassadors

Princess Mary's sisters have become ambassadors for Ovarian Cancer Australia because they understand the effect illness can have on families.

Henrietta Donaldson - the mother of the Danish princess and her siblings Patricia Bailey, Jane Stephens and John Stuart Donaldson - died 13 years ago from heart disease and Patricia and Jane are determined to help other families communicate about their health concerns.

Jane - who works as a nurse - told Woman's Day magazine: "Our joint involvement shows the importance of families sticking together. It's so important to talk to your family members about each other's health.

"It's a horrible disease. I've been a nurse for 22 years and during that time I've cared for women with ovarian cancer throughout the various stages of the illness. From being newly diagnosed, to having chemotherapy, to complications during their treatment. the impact it has on the families is just heartbreaking. "

Princess Mary - who has four children, Prince Christian, five, and Princess Isabella and one-month-old twins with husband Prince Frederic - is planning a trip to her native Australia to visit her family as soon as possible.

The Tasmanian born royal said: "We don't have complete plans arranged just yet, but it's hopefully not too far away.

"We are looking forward to introducing them to friends and family back home."