A long serving BBC presenter has emotionally revealed they are taking a break from their radio show after receiving an ‘incredibly rare’ cancer diagnosis earlier this year
A BBC presenter has revealed they need to take time away from their radio show following a cancer diagnosis. In an emotional message, Bryan Burnett told listeners he has an “incredible rare” cancer.
He has worked for the BBC for 15 years and is best known for hosting Get it On programme on BBC Radio Scotland during weekdays from 6pm. Bryan revealed he had been diagnosed with appendiceal cancer earlier this year.
According to the NHS, appendix tumours are unusual and account for 0.4% of all cancers of the bowel. Bryan will have treatment including chemotherapy and abdominal surgery.
As he takes time away from his show, colleague Grant Stott will fill in for him. In an emotional update, Bryan told his listeners: “This is gonna be my last show for a wee while and I want to explain why that is.
“Unfortunately, I’m gonna have to take some time off the show to have some treatment for cancer. When they removed my appendix recently, they discovered a tumour and appendix cancer is incredibly rare but the good news is it is treatable but I do have to have some fairly hefty abdominal surgery next week.”
Detailing what he has been through, the presenter added: “I’ve experienced the most incredible care and kindness from the NHS staff who have been looking after me. My surgeon is a Get it On listener so I know I’m in good hands.
“I will really miss the music and the chat when I’m off but our listeners have given me hundreds of great playlists so that will keep me going over the next few months.”
He concluded: “I want to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to all my brilliant producers for all the hand holding and all the encouragement they’ve given me since they found out my news. I’m sure they’ll let you know how I’m doing over the next few weeks.”
Brian started his career at Northsound Radio in Aberdeen and went on to present the Top 40 chart show for Radio Clyde in Glasgow.
He presented Brand New Country and won the International Broadcaster of the Year at the Country Music Association awards in 2005.
The radio star has also appeared on TV and has presented shows for Scottish Television such as Passport Quiz, Red Amber Green and Scottish Passport. Despite his health, Brian recently hosted the GCC awards and shared highlights on his social media.
He said: “Hosting the #gccawards tonight. A chance to celebrate the incredible people who keep our NHS running.”
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.
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