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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Entertainment
Lisa McLoughlin

Zoe Ball shares heartbreaking update on mother amid ‘advanced’ pancreatic cancer diagnosis

Zoe Ball shared an update with her listeners, announcing that her mother, Julia Peckham, was admitted to a hospice earlier this week.

The BBC 2 Radio presenter had previously taken a hiatus from her show to care for her mum, who is battling pancreatic cancer.

Last month, she disclosed that the cancer had progressed significantly, and the family was prioritising creating lasting memories together.

Recently, Ball disclosed that Julia has been transitioned to a hospice setting, describing the process as "gentle."

In a touching gesture on her breakfast show, the presenter dedicated a Bon Jovi song to the paramedics who assisted them.

She shared: “Mum’s in hospice now, pretty tough at the moment for the family” as she thanked the people “who are really looking after mum”.

Ball took to her social media to thank listeners for their support (Instagram/Zoe Ball)

“I know so many people in the same position as Jamie, my bro, and my dear mum at the moment.

‘”hings are really tough for my mum at the moment, just sending out loads of love. And, especially to anyone who is running the marathon this special causes.

“Big shout out to anyone running for cancer charities, especially pancreatic cancer, you’re all superheroes. Love you mum.”

Off air, she extended her gratitude on her Instagram Story but refrained from providing any additional updates to her 703,000 followers.

The presenter wrote: ‘Thank you for all your kindness. The messages, letters and cards for our Mum mean the world.

“Strength and love to the many families and folk touched by cancer. Holding tight and so grateful to the incredible people looking after our Ma.

“We pass these bluebells on the way to the hospice.”

The broadcaster expressed her desire to maintain a regular work schedule, despite her ongoing caring commitments.

After sharing her mother's diagnosis, it was announced that Gaby Roslin would fill in whenever Ball required time off.

The Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream presenter also shared her “new found admiration for all carers”, even finding humour in the amount of housework she's been tackling.

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