BBC legend Bob Harris has provided a heartbreaking update on his cancer battle. The 80-year-old radio star took to Instagram to share a photo and a post revealing that he has been experiencing 'excruciating pain' after his cancer spread to his back. The Radio 2 presenter informed his 92,800 followers that upon discovering the spread, he immediately started a course of radiotherapy and spent two weeks in hospital. He is now at home and on the path to recovery.
A Long Battle with Prostate Cancer
The legendary radio DJ, affectionately known as 'Whispering' Bob Harris, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007 and continues to live with the disease. In his Instagram message, he expressed gratitude to the team at Radio 2, his colleague Zoe Ball, and his temporary replacements Darius Rucker and Shaun Keaveny.
Full Instagram Update
Sharing a lengthy caption, Harris wrote: '***HEALTH UPDATE*** I'm sorry it's been so long since I last posted but the past few weeks have proved to be an extremely testing time... When I posted last time from hospital, we were trying to find the reason for the excruciating pain I was feeling in my back. Several scans later, we discovered that my prostate cancer has got into my upper spine… really frightening news... So, I immediately began a course of radiotherapy - two weeks in hospital in total - to bring things back under control. Thankfully I'm back at home now, on the pathway to recovery and feeling stronger every day... I have started a programme of rehab and today I got out into this glorious weather for the first time with my son [Miles Myerscough-Harris] who took the photograph... My family has been here for me in a massive way, helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life. I can't even begin to think of a way to say thank you. I love them so much.'
He continued: 'Helen Thomas and the BBC Radio 2 family have also been supportive beyond words and I know for certain that I'll be returning to my programmes as soon as I am able. I've set a personal target of mid-May for Country and the end of May for Sounds of the 70's. I know that my friends @dariusrucker and @shaunkeaveny_ have been doing a fabulous job… but I absolutely cannot wait to be back... Thank you for all the messages you've sent via the conversations Zoe Ball and I recorded for my 80th birthday programme. I had no idea then that I was about to relive the very experiences we talked about!... Just want to send so much love to Zoe and to everyone who have been in touch. See you soon folks! xxx'
Previous Cancer Updates
Two years ago, Bob opened up about his cancer treatment to fans, saying he counts 'every day as a blessing.' He wrote: 'I occasionally have to go through moments of intensive top-up treatments, and I have to take some pretty hefty daily medication to keep my cancer under control, the difficult side-effects of which can often bring my emotions far too close to the surface! But my cancer was detected early and I count every day as a blessing.' He added: 'My massive advice to any male over 50 reading this is GET YOURSELF CHECKED if you haven't already. The blood test only takes seconds and it could save your life!'
A Storied Broadcasting Career
Bob has been broadcasting with the BBC for more than 50 years and received an OBE for services to broadcasting in 2011. He currently presents Bob Harris Country on Thursday evenings from 7pm as well as Bob Harris Sunday. In 2019, Bob was forced to take a break from his shows after rupturing his aorta while out walking. He said at the time: 'Ten days ago, while out walking, I suffered a tear to my aorta known as an aortic dissection. The aorta is basically the M1 of the body and any damage is regarded as extremely serious. For the past few years I have been walking an average of five miles a day and I am convinced that the level of fitness I have achieved during that time helped save my life. It was an incredibly scary moment and I am massively indebted to the ambulance crew who attended so promptly, the intensive care team and the consultants at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, and to my wife Trudie and my wonderful family who have rallied round me with huge love and support. I am not exactly sure when I will be on air again but I am on the road to recovery now and will be back playing music for you on Radio 2 as soon as possible. Thank you for everything.'
Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer kills more than 11,800 men a year in Britain, or one every 45 minutes. It is second only to lung and bowel cancer in terms of mortality. In the US, the disease kills 26,000 men each year. Despite this, it receives less than half the research funding of breast cancer. Every year, upwards of 52,300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK. The disease usually develops slowly, and early detection is crucial. Men over 50 are eligible for a PSA blood test, which can help detect the disease. Anyone with concerns can contact Prostate Cancer UK's specialist nurses on 0800 074 8383 or visit prostatecanceruk.org.
