Bob Harris shares emotional health update amid cancer battle as he reflects ‘there have been some changes’
Veteran radio presenter Bob Harris has revealed he is undergoing an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy after his prostate cancer progressed to his upper spine.
The 80-year-old broadcaster, who disclosed the spread of his disease in April, shared the update in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday.
Ms Harris left his two Radio 2 programmes Sounds Of The 70s and Radio 2 Country back in June to concentrate on his treatment and recovery, a move he called “one of the hardest decisions of my life.”
Despite the advancing illness, the DJ said he remains in good health and expressed confidence that the new treatment regime should “keep things at bay,” adding: “I should know the outcome quite soon.”
Bob Harris left his two Radio 2 programmes Sounds Of The 70s and Radio 2 Country back in June
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BBCIn his Instagram message, Mr Harris reflected on the months since leaving his programmes, describing the period as a gift of “a most beautiful summer” at home.
“I have been missing my programmes so much, but this space has given me a most beautiful summer here at home, enjoying a most precious commodity… TIME,” he wrote.
He spoke of feeling “very blessed” to have enjoyed cherished moments with loved ones during the warm weather, some of which he had documented on social media.
However, he acknowledged that while he was savouring that time, his condition had worsened.
“During this time my cancer has been getting more of a hold,” Mr Harris said, noting that he continues to feel physically well despite the progression.
He described the journey as “a very emotional roller coaster,” admitting that maintaining a brave face is not always straightforward. He revealed that he broke down crying after leaving hospital alongside his son Miles on Friday.
Yet the broadcaster insisted he would not be defeated by the diagnosis. “But, as you know, I’m an extremely positive person, and I continue to be determined to continue to get the best out of everyday,” he wrote.
He directed a rallying message at anyone else enduring hardship: “My message to you if you too are going through a difficult time is this: NEVER GIVE IN. Fight with all your might to keep going.”
Bob Harris (pictured in 2012) shared his cancer before stepping down from hosting BBC Radio 2 | PAMr Harris also expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and friends, saying: “Your kind words mean more than you will ever know.”
Looking ahead, Mr Harris confirmed he fully intends to take the stage at the Stand By Me: Bob Harris- A Celebration of Life In Music tribute concert, scheduled for December at the Royal Albert Hall.
“I am still working and looking way into the future,” he said.
The event will celebrate a broadcasting career that has stretched across nearly 56 years.
Bob Harris shared an emotional update | PA
Mr Harris succeeded Johnnie Walker as host of Sounds Of The 70s in 2024, and has previously worked at Radio 1 and BBC Six Music.
He is perhaps best remembered for his iconic stint presenting the Old Grey Whistle Test, the acclaimed BBC music programme, during the 1970s.
Throughout his career, he has championed country, folk, Americana and singer-songwriters, helping introduce new talent to generations of listeners.
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