'Not giving up': Casey DeSantis makes first public appearance since breast cancer diagnosis

TAMPA, Fla. - Over the weekend, Florida’s first lady made a surprise appearance at a Republican Party event in Hernando County, her first since word of her breast cancer diagnosis.

Casey DeSantis received a standing ovation after the governor told attendees at a private dinner that his wife was actually at the dinner as well. It was her first public appearance since the governor announced earlier this month over Twitter that she was battling cancer.

Ron DeSantis has remained positive when speaking about the first lady’s diagnosis. Last week he said that they have faith, and while it is a tough break, he says Casey has a lot to live for and three beautiful children that she needs to raise.

On Saturday, the governor once again told the crowd that she’s doing very well, adding that she’s doing so well she decided to make an appearance. Casey told the crowd she’s not giving up.

"I think there’s a lot we can be upset about, that we can be sad about: The direction of our country, the future of our nation, our families, our community our safety, our children, their education, their futures, our health and our well-being," she told attendees. "But I’ll tell you one thing for sure, I’m sure as hell not giving up."

Neither the governor nor the first lady have given details about her diagnosis, like how far along the cancer is.

PREVIOUS: DeSantis addresses wife's breast cancer battle: 'She fights, she's tough'

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the first lady’s diagnosis highlights the fact that cancer does not discriminate. Breast cancer is the number-one type of cancer being detected in new cancer cases not only in Florida, but across the country.

Statistics show that one in eight women will battle breast cancer during their lifetime. As the first lady faces her diagnosis head-on, other breast cancer survivors told FOX 13 they hope this will be a message to others, raising awareness and encouraging women to be proactive.

RELATED: Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Ways to reduce risk and detect it early