Lauren Laverne, the presenter of *Desert Island Discs*, has disclosed that she is currently in the hospital after receiving a cancer diagnosis.
In an Instagram post, the 46-year-old broadcaster shared that the cancer was detected early during a routine screening, and she is expected to make a full recovery.
Laverne posted on Wednesday morning: "Right then, some personal news ... I recently had a cancer diagnosis. Thankfully, it was caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test, and I am expected to make a full recovery."
Alongside a photo of herself in a hospital bed, she informed her 250,000 followers: "I’m in the hospital at the moment."
She expressed her gratitude to the doctors and nurses at the hospital for their "incredible skill and kindness" in helping her reach this point.
Laverne also thanked her family and friends, describing them as "absolutely extraordinary every step of the way." She extended her appreciation to BBC 6 Music, where she hosts a breakfast show, and her colleagues at *Desert Island Discs* for giving her the time off needed to focus on her recovery.
She urged her followers not to delay getting tested if they have any concerns about potential cancer symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection: "I also want to say that if you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out, please, please do it today. Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out ASAP is everything."
Laverne concluded her post by saying: "It’s usually my job to bring the good vibes on air, but any you have to spare are very much welcome here. Sending loads of love to anyone in a similar boat, or who has made it back to shore. Xxx."
The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues and friends. Sports broadcaster Gabby Logan sent "all the love and positive healing," while actor Vicky McClure offered "love and speedy healing xx."
Fellow BBC broadcasters Clara Amfo and Dermot O’Leary, actor Richard E. Grant, and former *Match of the Day* presenter Ian Wright all shared heart emojis in response.
Feminist writer Caitlin Moran expressed her support, saying: "Loz, we know you’re going to be a queen through this like you are a queen through everything. But I do want to boot cancer in the nuts. LOVE YOU FOREVER xxxx."
Laverne took over as the permanent host of *Desert Island Discs* on Radio 4 in 2018 after Kirsty Young stepped down due to health issues. Over the years, she has interviewed notable figures such as Cate Blanchett, Stanley Tucci, and even Young herself.
Laverne first rose to fame as the lead singer of the 90s pop-punk band Kenickie.
Following the news of Laverne’s diagnosis, Deb Grant, who is filling in for her on her breakfast show, said: "I just wanted to say on behalf of everyone here at 6 Music, we’re thinking of you, we hope you’ll be back with us very soon ... we love you, Lauren."
Grant then played the track "We Can Work It Out," noting that it is one of Laverne’s favorites.
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