BBC star Lauren Laverne, 46, reveals she has cancer as she shares emotional message from hospital
BBC star Lauren Laverne has revealed she has cancer.
The Desert Island Discs star, 46, made the brave announcement in an Instagram post from her hospital bed.
The host explained she had been diagnosed with the disease but it was caught early.
Lauren did not reveal what type of cancer she has, but said it was spotted during a screening test.
She said: “I recently had a cancer diagnosis. It was (thank God) caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test and I am expected to make a full recovery.
“I’m in hospital at the moment and wanted to take this moment to say thank you: firstly to medical teams who have got me this far with incredible skill and kindness.
“To my family and friends who have been absolutely extraordinary every step of the way – I am so very grateful and love you so much.
“And of course thank you to my colleagues…. for their support and for giving me the time off that I need to get better.”
Lauren urged her followers to attend every scan or appointment they’re given as it could be a life saver.
She added: “If you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out please, please do it today.
“Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything.”
Lauren started her career as an Indie pop star in the 90s before taking the spotlight as a successful broadcaster with the BBC.
Lauren's statement in full
Right then, some personal news… I recently had a cancer diagnosis.
It was (thank God) caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test and I am expected to make a full recovery.
I’m in hospital at the moment and wanted to take this moment to say thank you: Firstly to the medical teams who have got me this far with incredible skill and kindness.
To my family and friends who have been absolutely extraordinary every step of the way – I am so very grateful and love you so much. And of course thank you to my colleagues… for their support – and for giving me the time off that I need to get better.
I also want to say that if you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out please, please do it today.
Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything.
It’s usually my job to bring the good vibes on air but any you have to spare are very much welcome here.
Sending loads of love to anyone in a similar boat, or who has made it back to shore. xxx
This is a breaking news story. More to follow…