Dame Esther Rantzen has revealed she has lung cancer which has spread - but says she is "optimistic" about the diagnosis.
The legendary presenter, who founded the charities The Silver Line and Childline, confirmed the news on Sunday. The 82-year-old said in a statement: "In the last few weeks I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread.
"At the moment I am undergoing various tests, to assess the best treatment. 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."
As reported by our sister title The Mirror, the 82-year-old added: "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. 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."
The broadcaster was a trailblazer for female journalists, became a household name during her BBC career. She presented That's Life! - a programme featuring a mix of investigations, topical issues and entertainment - between 1973 to 1994.
She also established children's charity Childline, in 1986, allowing children and young people up until the age of 19, in the UK. to receive counselling and support. In 2013 she set up The Silver Line, which supports elderly people in the UK who are battling loneliness.
In 2021 she received the lifetime achievement award at the Women of the Year Awards for her charity work. She was made a DBE in 2015 for services to children and older people through ChildLine and The Silver Line.
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