TV legend Dame Esther Rantzen has admitted "nobody knows" if her cancer medicine is working as she shares what's keeping her positive.
The journalist and presenter, 82, shared her lung cancer diagnosis in January and has since revealed she is facing Stage 4 cancer.
Esther, who is best known for hosting BBC programme That's Life! for 21 years, opened up about her illness “because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise”.
In an exclusive chat with The Mirror, she revealed: "I’m on one of the new medications, and nobody knows if it’s working or not.
“But I will have a scan fairly soon which will reveal one way or another."
The TV host has managed to remain positive by reflecting on her many achievements throughout her career.
Esther founded both Childline and Sliver Line and is marking 50 years since That's Life! first aired.
“My diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer made me realise how very lucky I’ve been in my life, working with Childline and the Silver Line, and meeting so many fascinating and inspiring people, and especially lucky to have spent 21 years working as producer/presenter of That’s Life!” she said.
“I’m not good at regrets. What I treasure most are the fantastic friendships I have made thanks to That’s Life! during the last 50 years, the people I met, and the team who worked so hard, and laughed so hard, together for so long.”
Esther was unable to make a special tribute for her TV programme on The One Show earlier this week due to her illness.
Presenter Alex Jones read out a statement on Esther's behalf, as she said: "I can’t believe it’s 50 years since the launch when I’m still only 35 myself. Those 21 years of That’s Life passed in a flash!
“My current illness, lung cancer, is the reason that, sadly, I can’t be with you tonight – I would have loved to join you to suggest that someone should be making That’s Life today.
“Of course, The One Show does a lot of the same great work, but you do need a few more talented dogs.
“I would also have loved to be there to thank you so much for reviving all those happy memories – please send everyone, the viewers and my fellow That’s Lifers, my fondest love.”
Earlier this year, Esther released a statement about her diagnosis that read: "I have decided not to keep this secret any more because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise, and because I would rather you heard the facts from me.
“At the age of 82, this diagnosis has prompted me to look back over the years, and I want to express my profound thanks to everyone who has made my life so joyful, filled with fun, and with inspiration.
“My three children Miriam, Rebecca and Joshua have been the most wonderful support, company, and source of love and laughter and I am deeply grateful to them.”
