BBC Radio 6 Music host Lauren Laverne has revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer and is now recovering in hospital.
Laverne shot to fame in the ’90s as the lead singer and guitarist of pop punk four-piece Kenickie, whose album ‘At The Club’ went to Number Nine in the UK Albums Chart in 1997.
She has gone on to host the 6 Music breakfast show and BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, as well as presenting shows including 10 O’Clock Live and The One Show.
She took to Instagram to share news of her diagnosis this morning (August 21) and has urged her fans to get checked out as soon as possible.
“Right then, some personal news,” her post began. “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.”
The former NME Awards presenter went on to thank her colleagues on Desert Island Discs, The One Show and Independent Talent Group for their support, and for “giving me the time off that I need to get better”. Several presenters, including Dermot O’Leary, Gabby Logan and Clara Amfo have extended well wishes.
She used the post to encourage people to get screened as soon as possible, writing: “I also want to say that if you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to 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. 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.”
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