Radio presenter Jamie Theakston announces cancer diagnosis after listeners heard 'change in voice'
Heart Radio DJ Jamie Theakston has announced he's been diagnosed with cancer as he thanked listeners who had noticed a change in his voice for prompting him to get checked out.
The 53-year-old wrote on social media: "The biopsy has identified this as Stage 1 Laryngeal Cancer.
"So... I have cancer... but cancer doesn't have me!
"The prognosis is very positive and I'm hoping to be back with you in October.
Advert
"Until then, I've been told to give my voice a rest and leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK (Jason King) and Amanda (Holden).
"Big thanks to them and all the Global family who have been unbelievably supportive.
"Be thankful for this day, and when I next see you, I've got a great story to tell ... Jamie x."
Earlier this month, Theakston admitted that comments from listeners led to him getting himself checked out after they noticed his voice sounded different on air.
He wrote on Instagram on 1 September: "Sooo - a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn't sounded right these past few weeks - I've got you to thank... got it checked.
"Doctors found a lesion on my vocal chords which I've had removed this weekend - thanks for all the kind messages - should be back on my feet soon."
His cancer diagnosis has been met with words of encouragement from colleagues and friends.
Carol Vorderman wrote: “Sending best Jamie. Thank goodness your listeners spotted the change in your voice, all found early and you’ll be back keeping everyone happy very soon.”
His ex presenter colleague Lisa Snowdon also penned: “Sending lots of love Jamie.”
Holden added: "Love you darling," while Jamie Oliver commented: "Big love brother you got this sending love xxx."
The TV personality started out presenting Top of the Pops from 1998 to 2003 before heading to Heart Radio in 2005 to front its breakfast show.
According to the NHS, Laryngeal cancer directly affects the larynx (voice box).
"The larynx is part of the throat found at the entrance of the windpipe (trachea). It plays an important role in helping you breathe and speak," the health service explain.
"In the UK, there are more than 2,000 new cases of laryngeal cancer each year.
"The condition is more common in people over the age of 60. It's more common in men than women.
"The main symptom of laryngeal cancer is having a hoarse voice for more than three weeks."
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Anish Vij