DAME Esther Rantzen has opened up about her battle with lung cancer, revealing the disease has "spread" in her body.
The broadcasting legend said she was remaining "optimistic" after confirming she had been diagnosed with cancer in a statement released by PA today.
Esther, 82, who hosted BBC show That's Life! for over two decades, said she is remaining "optimistic" despite the terrifying diagnosis.
The journalist and TV star revealed tests had discovered the cancer had "spread" through her body.
Dame Esther - who was awarded a DBE in 2015 - said: "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."
The former I'm A Celeb star, who entered the jungle in 2014, said she had been "hiding" her hospital visits.
Esther revealed she had been wearing a "disguise" in hospital to avoid the secret from spreading among her fans.
"I have decided not to keep this secret any more because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise," she added.
"I would rather you heard the facts from me."
In a touching tribute to her family and fans, she concluded: "At the age of 82, this diagnosis has prompted me to look back over the years.
"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."
