Vicki Gunvalson 'very sad' about Brooks Ayers' cancer diagnosis

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., Oct. 3 (UPI) —

Vicki Gunvalson was "very sad" to learn ex Brooks Ayers was diagnosed with stage three cancer.

The 52-year-old Real Housewives of Orange County star addressed the diagnosis in a statement to People on Thursday. Ayers was first diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in fall 2013, and his cancer has since advanced.

"I am very sad about the recent diagnosis of Brooks’ cancer reoccurrence," Gunvalson said. "It really puts life into 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."

Gunvalson and Ayers dated on and off for years, but are no longer a couple. The reality star has appeared on nine seasons of The Real Housewives of Orange County, and will return for a 10th season on Bravo.