Dame Esther Rantzen yesterday revealed that she is suffering from lung cancer, which has spread in a matter of weeks.
The renowned broadcaster has been a role model for female journalists, as well as founding the notable charities Childline and The Silver Line. The 82 year-old became a household name as presenter of the BBC show That's Live for 21 years from 1972 until 1994.
Dame Esther released a statement on Monday thanking her family, friends and colleagues for their support. "In the last few weeks I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread," she said. "At the moment I am undergoing various tests, to assess the best treatment."