Lauren Laverne has revealed she is recovering in hospital following a cancer diagnosis.
The BBC Radio 6 Music Breakfast Show and Radio 4 Desert Island Discs presenter said it had been caught early after a screen test and expected to make a full recovery.
Posting on Instagram, she said: “I recently had a cancer diagnosis. It was (thank God) caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test and I am expected to make a full recovery.
“I’m in hospital at the moment and wanted to take this moment to say thank you: Firstly to the medical teams who have got me this far with incredible skill and kindness.
“To my family and friends who have been absolutely extraordinary every step of the way – I am so very grateful and love you so much.”
She sent thanks to her colleagues and bosses for their support as she takes time off to recover.
Urging anyone avoiding or putting off getting tested, Laren said: “Get yourself checked out please, please do it today. Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything.”
She concluded: “It’s usually my job to bring the good vibes on air but any you have to spare are very much welcome here. Sending loads of love to anyone in a similar boat, or who has made it back to shore.”
When Vernon Kay began his show this morning on Radio 2, he said on-air: “And we are sending all our love and well wishes to Lauren. We started our TV careers pretty much at the same time. We share the same birthday. So, big love, Lauren.”
A BBC spokesperson told RadioToday: “Everyone at 6 Music, Radio 4 and The One Show sends Lauren our very best wishes and we look forward to welcoming her back to work when she’s ready.”
Nick Grimshaw is presenting the 6 Music Breakfast Show next week as Lauren was due to take holiday, and the following week’s presenter will be announced in due course.
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