BBC News presenter Kate Silverton has announced the passing of her mother, Patricia Silverton, at the age of 83 following a battle with pancreatic cancer earlier this month. The 55-year-old broadcaster shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram on Tuesday, revealing that her mother died three weeks before her 84th birthday after undergoing a gruelling course of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
A Courageous Fight
Silverton explained that despite trial drugs reducing her mother's tumour by 42%, the cancer ultimately 'caught up with her', leading to a 'peaceful and graceful' passing. In a poignant tribute accompanied by a series of heartwarming images, she wrote: 'I feel as though I’ve been holding my breath for a very long time. Last summer my dear mum was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.'
Initially choosing to forgo treatment, Patricia later discovered a clinical trial and requested to participate. 'At 83, having chemotherapy and immunotherapy was no mean feat, but mum showed incredible bravery and stoicism as she returned each week for treatment,' Silverton added. 'It was as much she said, to help her have more time, as to help others who were sadly in the same situation.'
A Complex Relationship Healed
The former BBC News presenter reflected on the complexities of their relationship, attributing therapy to healing past wounds. 'My relationship with my mum was complex and had not been without difficulty in earlier decades,' she wrote. 'I attribute therapy to being able to heal the wounds that existed — and for being able to love my mum — and come to enjoy a great sense of peace and understanding between us that saw us forge the most beautiful bond in our later years.'
Silverton expressed gratitude for the time they had together, saying: 'I am grateful for so much — and my sisters and I know how lucky we are to have had mum with us for as long as we did.' She concluded her tribute with a heartfelt farewell: 'Sharing a carousel then in honour of Patricia Ann Silverton 29th April 1942 - 8th April 2026. Fly well mum and give dad a big kiss from us all.'
