Veteran broadcaster Bob Harris received an outpouring of support from Radio 2 presenters after revealing he was struggling with the effects of his ongoing cancer management.
The 79-year-old DJ, affectionately called “Whispering” Bob by listeners, posted on social media on Wednesday evening that he was experiencing a particularly difficult period.
Mr Harris shared a photograph of himself resting and wrote: “I am so grateful for my cancer treatment but there are times when the side effects are really tough. Feeling very low tonight. Tomorrow I go again…”
Fellow Radio 2 personalities responded with encouraging messages.
Bob Harris has been battling cancer since 2007
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GETTY
Zoe Ball commented: “Darling chap. sorry to hear today hasn’t been so good. all the love to you. You’re very brave and loved xxxx.” (sic)
The broadcaster has been living with prostate cancer for 18 years, having received his diagnosis in 2007.
Medical advancements have enabled him to manage the condition, though he requires substantial daily medication and periodic intensive treatments.
Other Radio 2 hosts offered their support through social media.
“I need you up and at um Bob! You’re the Governor!!!” Paddy McGuinness wrote whilst Dermot O’Leary responded: “You’re the best champ! X.”
Sara Cox added: “Bob I’m sending you an inappropriately long hug xxxxx.” (sic)
Mr Harris has previously discussed how the medication’s challenging side effects can make him emotionally vulnerable.
Despite these difficulties, he maintains a positive outlook on his situation.
Zoe Ball was among the famous faces who shared a supportive message with Bob Harris
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Two years ago, the broadcaster spoke candidly about his health journey, stating he regards each day as a gift. He revealed that whilst early detection had been crucial in his case, maintaining control of the cancer requires intensive medication regimens.
Mr Harris has become an advocate for prostate health awareness, strongly encouraging male listeners aged 50 and above to undergo screening, emphasising that the blood test is quick and potentially life-saving.
The DJ explained that although his treatment regime can trigger difficult emotional responses, he remains grateful for the medical care that has extended his life.
Mr Harris has presented programmes on the BBC for more than five decades and was honoured with an OBE for broadcasting services in 2011. He currently hosts Bob Harris Country on Thursday evenings and Bob Harris Sunday.
Bob Harris has become an advocate for prostate health awareness
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BBC
The broadcaster faced another serious health challenge in 2019 when he suffered an aortic tear while walking. He credited his fitness routine of daily five-mile walks with helping to save his life during that emergency.
Following the aortic dissection, Mr Harris required immediate medical attention and intensive care at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
He acknowledged the swift response of paramedics and the support of his wife Trudie and family during his recovery.
The incident forced him to temporarily step away from his radio programmes whilst recuperating.