Stefania Sarrubba
Radio host Jamie Theakston has revealed a cancer diagnosis, thanking listeners for spotting a symptom early on.
Theakston, who co-hosts the breakfast show on Heart Radio with Amanda Holden, opened up on receiving a stage 1 laryngeal cancer diagnosis.
Taking to Instagram today (September 17), the presenter said a biopsy on a lesion on his vocal chords revealed he has cancer.
He also announced who is replacing him on the show alongside Holden until his return next month.
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"So… I have cancer… but cancer doesn't have me!" Theakston wrote in a message to his followers.
"The prognosis is very positive and I’m hoping to be back with you in October," he continued.
"Until then, I leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK [Jason King] and Amanda [Holden]. Huge thanks to them and all the Global Family who have been unbelievably supportive."
Jamie continued: "Be thankful for this day, and when I see you next, I’ll have a great story to tell."
During today’s live show, Holden revealed that Theakston asked her and JK to ‘hold the fort’ while he's away.
She also shared a message for her co-host, wishing him a speedy recovery and reassuring their fans that his prognosis is ‘very good’.
"Our wonderful @jamie.theakston has been diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer," Holden wrote on her Instagram. "His prognosis is very good and he has an incredible team around him. Jamie. We love and miss you and look forward to seeing you very soon. With @sophietheakstonjewellery, your gorgeous boys, Us and the entire nation with you.. YOU WILL GET THROUGH THIS."
Earlier this month, Theakston took to Instagram to follow up on some listeners' concerns about his voice change. He explained he went to see a doctor who found a lesion on his vocal chords he had to remove.
"Sooo - a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn't sounded right these past few weeks - I’ve got you to thank," the host wrote.
"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 - in the meantime … [zipper-mouth face emoji]."
Theakston’s cancer diagnosis announcement was met with an outpouring of support from followers and fellow celebrities.
Holden wrote 'love you darling', while chef Jamie Oliver commented: "Big love brother you got this sending love xxx." Meanwhile, Married at First Sight expert Mel Schilling, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer last year, offered: "Sending all my love & cancer-kicking strength Jamie."