‘I remain optimistic’: Dame Esther Rantzen, 82, reveals she has been diagnosed with lung cancer ‘which has now spread’
Dame Esther Rantzen has said she remains “optimistic” after revealing she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
The 82-year-old broadcaster, a longtime activist and founder of Childline and The Silver Line charities, confirmed the news on Sunday.
Dame Esther said in a statement to the PA news agency: “In recent weeks I found out that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread.”
‘Right now I am undergoing several tests to evaluate the best treatment.
News: Dame Esther Rantzen has said she remains ‘optimistic’ after revealing she has been diagnosed with lung cancer
He added that after having to disguise himself during his trips to the hospital for tests, he decided to go public.
“I have decided not to keep this secret anymore because it is difficult for me to hang around various hospitals in a lame disguise, and because I would prefer that you hear the facts for me,” he explained.
Esther went on to thank her family, friends and colleagues ‘who have made my life so happy’.
‘At the age of 82, this diagnosis has caused me to look back over the years, and I want to express my deep appreciation to everyone who has made my life so joyful, fun-filled and inspired.
‘First of all my family. My three children, Miriam, Rebecca, and Joshua, have been the most wonderful support, companionship, and source of love and laughter, and I am deeply grateful to them.
My friends have been amazing and have created memories that sustain me and give me strength.
‘My colleagues I have worked with and continue to work with in broadcasting, journalism, the voluntary sector and in many other organizations have been a constant delight and amaze me with their tolerance of my crazy ideas and horrible jokes.
‘Optimistic’: Dame Esther said in a statement to the PA news agency: ‘In recent weeks I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread’
“I have been continually inspired by the brave children, seniors and bystanders who have entrusted me with their life stories. I have always tried to live up to that trust.
As I’m sure you understand, while I’m waiting for test results, I can’t answer questions. Thanks to the extraordinary skills of the medical profession, there are wonderful new treatments, so I remain optimistic.”
A pioneer of female broadcasters, Dame Esther became a household name during her career at the BBC.
She is best known for hosting That’s Life! – a show featuring a mix of investigations, current affairs, and entertainment – from 1973 to 1994.
In addition to her success as a journalist and broadcaster, Dame Esther is also the founder of the children’s charity Childline, which she founded in 1986.