BBC journalist Rory Cellan-Jones has revealed he has cancer, just days after confirming he had been diagnosed as suffering from Parkinson’s disease.
The 61-year-old technology correspondent is set to have specialist radiotherapy for a cancerous eye tumour known as a choroidal melanoma.
The problem, which was picked up in a routine test 14 years ago, has affected the vision in his left eye.
He told the Mail on Sunday: “I keep being asked if I’m shocked about my Parkinson’s diagnosis, but you need to put it in context.
“The Parkinson’s can feel like the least of my worries.
“The melanoma has felt shocking and frightening. After the diagnosis I did a lot of Googling which I had to stop.
“I’ve realised I’m in the hands of experts and I’ve never asked about a prognosis.
“In comparison, Parkinson’s – at least while my symptoms are mild – doesn’t feel as bad.”
Earlier this week, the journalist shared his recent diagnosis for Parkinson’s disease after viewers noticed him shaking on air.
A couple of people have noticed my hand shaking in my live 5G broadcast today. So seems a good time to reveal that I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I’m getting good treatment and the symptoms are mild right now – so I’m carrying on as normal. Onwards and upwards!
— Rory Cellan-Jones (@ruskin147) 30 May 2019
Fellow broadcasters sent messages wishing him well after he shared the news.
BBC presenter Evan Davis wrote on Twitter: “Rory.. you are being showered with good wishes and respect.
“And deservedly so. Wishing you well as you deal with it.”
Sky’s Ian King posted: “Rory – desperately sorry to hear that, but good to know it won’t stop you from keeping up your great work. Very best of luck with the treatment.”
The BBC’s North America editor Jon Sopel said: “Best to you Rory.”
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