Esther Rantzen reveals her lung cancer has spread saying ‘nobody knows’ if medication is working
TELLY legend Esther Rantzen has revealed her lung cancer is at stage four as she spoke about her treatment for the first time.
Stage four – sometimes known as advanced lung cancer – indicates that the cancer has spread.
The That’s Life! star revealed her diagnosis in January, saying she was remaining “optimistic”.
Speaking for the first time about her treatment in the Mirror, she said: “I’m on one of the new medications, and nobody knows if it’s working or not.
“But I will have a scan fairly soon which will reveal one way or another.”
However, she added that she was grateful for her life and work, saying: “I’m not good at regrets.”
Speaking about her TV career, she said: “My diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer made me realise how very lucky I’ve been in my life.
“Working with Childline and the Silver Line, and meeting so many fascinating and inspiring people, and especially lucky to have spent 21 years working as producer/presenter of That’s Life!”
The show, a forerunner to The One Show, pulled in audiences of up to 20million – ratings unmatched by almost anything on TV today.
Esther fronted the series, which focused on funny items, consumer investigations and human-interest stories, for 21 years, from 1973 until 1994.
Esther was due to appear on The One Show this week to speak about consumer show That’s Life, which began 50 years ago.
However, Esther, who also founded charities Childline and The Silver Line, explained her illness meant she was unable to make it.
Revealing her cancer diagnosis in January, the star said: “I have decided not to keep this secret any more because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise, and because I would rather you heard the facts from me.
“At the age of 82, this diagnosis has prompted me to look back over the years, and I want to express my profound thanks to everyone who has made my life so joyful, filled with fun, and with inspiration.
“First and foremost my family. My three children Miriam, Rebecca and Joshua have been the most wonderful support, company, and source of love and laughter and I am deeply grateful to them.
The 8 signs of lung cancer you need to know
Here are the important signs to look out for, according to the NHS:
- A cough that doesn’t go away after two or three weeks
- A long standing cough that gets worse
- Persistent chest infections
- Coughing up blood
- An ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- Persistent breathlessness
- Persistent tiredness or lack of energy
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
“My friends have been amazing and have created memories which sustain me and give me strength.
“My colleagues with whom I have worked, and continue to work with in broadcasting, journalism, the voluntary sector, and in many other organisations have been a constant pleasure, and have amazed me with their tolerance of my wild ideas and awful jokes.
“I have been continuously inspired by the courageous children, older people and viewers who have trusted me with their life stories. I have always tried to live up to that trust.
“As I am sure you will understand, while I am awaiting the results of the tests, I am unable to answer questions.
“Thanks to the extraordinary skills of the medical profession there are wonderful new treatments, so I am remaining optimistic.”
