Jamie Theakston announces Laryngeal cancer diagnosis
Presenter Jamie Theakston reveals he has a form of head and neck cancer
The Heart Radio DJ announced the news in a post on Instagram, saying he recently had an operation to remove a lesion from his vocal chords (Larynx). He had sought medical attention after concerned fans contacted him to say they’d noticed a change in his voice.
The 53-year-old wrote: “The biopsy has identified this as Stage 1 Laryngeal Cancer.
“So… I have cancer… but cancer doesn’t have me!
“The prognosis is very positive and I’m hoping to be back with you in October.”
He signed off his post: “Be thankful for this day, and when I see you next I’ll have a great story to tell… Jamie x”.
His co-presenter, Amanda Holden described on the radio show this morning how listeners had written to Jamie to question why his voice had changed.
Oracle Voices ambassador offers support and advice to Jamie
One of our Oracle Voices ambassadors who survived Laryngeal cancer treatment has been interviewed by The Daily Star and has offered Jamie Theakston and his family advice and support. Jon Organ has previously contributed to many magazine and newspaper articles to raise awareness and promote self checks for head and neck cancers.
Jon says “the diagnosis is a terrible shock, but you will get over it and you will get over it. Radiotherapy in that area kills the saliva and the taste buds, you have to wear a mask and it’s a very difficult treatment.”
But he championed Jamie with a gritty cheer: “But you will get through to it now.” Jon tipped the scales of advice, stressing: “The best thing is to eat as much as you can and put a lot of weight on because you will lose weight, because you can’t swallow food with the radiotherapy.”
With rock-solid assurance, he added: “You will get through it and you will be okay.” Touchingly, Jon has thrown open the doors of support, stating: “I am always there for him if he ever wanted to talk because it can be a lonely place because it deals with your voice and that’s your personality and who you are.”
See Jon´s patient stories here.
What is Laryngeal Cancer?
The larynx is commonly called the voice box. This tube-shaped organ in the neck is important for breathing, protecting your windpipe and producing voice. It is located at the top of the windpipe, or trachea.
For more information on Laryngeal Cancer
Jamie Theakston’s recent cancer diagnosis serves as a vital reminder about the importance of early detection and proactive healthcare.
Head and neck cancers often go unnoticed, largely because many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms. At Oracle, we urge everyone to take a moment to perform a simple self-check. It could save your life. Visit headneckcheck.com to learn how. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
Additionally, HPV vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of certain types of head and neck cancers. By protecting yourself, you’re taking an essential step in reducing your risk.
Let’s all take action to prioritize our health and raise awareness for early detection.
If you´re worried about changes in your voice, neck or mouth please refer to our simple “home check” guide.
See also patient stories to hear about other people diagnosed with Head and Neck Cancers.
Have you got a symptom, are you being diagnosed, going through treatment, or a friend/carer of someone who is?
Please join our private Facebook Group to get support and advice from fellow patients and carers.
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