Amanda Holden shares heartfelt message with presenter Jamie Theakston after cancer diagnosis

Heart Radio presenter Amanda Holden has sent a heartfelt message to her Breakfast Show co-host Jamie Theakston this morning after revealing he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Theakston, 53, had previously taken to social media to thank his online followers for expressing concern about an apparent change in his voice – something they had noticed while he was presenting live on air.

After urging him to see his GP, his fans were informed via Instagram earlier this month (September 1) that a lesion had been discovered on his vocal cords and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of laryngeal cancer.

“Some of you listeners have noticed that my voice has not been good in recent weeks,” he explained at the time. “I have to thank you…”

And speaking about his diagnosis in a new post today, Theakston confirmed his diagnosis.

“So… I have cancer… but cancer doesn’t have me!” he wrote in an Instagram message to his followers. “The prognosis is very positive and I hope to be back with you in October.”

He continued: “So far I leave you in the very capable hands of JK (Jason King) and Amanda (Holden). A big thank you to them and the entire global family who have given me incredible support.

“Be grateful for this day, and when I see you again, I will have a great story to tell you.”

As we say, the worrying news was also confirmed by Theakston’s co-presenter Amanda Holden, who posted an emotional message live today, revealing he had asked her and colleague JK (Jamie King) to “hold the fort” while he was away.

Also taking to social media, she wrote a heartfelt tribute.

“Our wonderful @jamie.theakston has been diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer,” Holden wrote today (September 17).

“His prognosis is very good and he has an incredible team around him. Jamie. We love you and miss you and look forward to seeing you very soon.

“With @sophietheakstonjewellery, your beautiful boys, us and the whole nation with you… YOU WILL DO IT.”

According to the NHS, there are more than 2,000 cases of laryngeal cancer each year in the UK. It is generally more common in people over 60 and in men.

The NHS has also shared a list of symptoms to look out for that may be linked to laryngeal cancer.

Similar to Theakston’s case, people with laryngeal cancer may experience a change in their voice, which may become hoarse. This is considered the “main symptom” of this type of cancer and requires medical attention if it lasts for more than three weeks.

Pain or difficulty swallowing are also signs that you may have laryngeal cancer.

Doctors also advise watching for a lump or swelling in the neck, as well as a persistent cough or shortness of breath and/or a persistent sore throat or earache.

You may also want to see your GP if you hear a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe.

In severe cases, the patient may have difficulty breathing. Other general symptoms, such as bad breath or unintentional weight loss, as well as fatigue may be related to this condition.

If you have been affected by any of these issues and would like to speak to someone in confidence, contact the Macmillan Cancer Helpline on 0808 808 00 00, 8am to 8pm, seven days a week..