TV and radio presenter Sian Welby has rallied round her co-host Chris Stark after he revealed he was recently diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Sian, who many also know for presenting This Morning, hosts the Capital FM breakfast show alongside Chris and Jordan North. Over the past few weeks, Chris, 38, has been absent from work, and he revealed the reason why with fans this week (March 24).
Chris Stark reveals cancer diagnosis
In an Instagram post shared on Monday, Chris said he found out about his diagnosis “a couple of months ago”, after a “routine trip” to his local doctors.
He continued: “I had surgery pretty quickly and have been off the radio/podcasts the last couple of weeks having chemotherapy to best prevent anything from coming back.
“The reason I want to share this is that I feel like an idiot that I didn’t spot this sooner. And although I’m effectively cured and it was caught early, my hope is any bloke reading this will perhaps think to check themselves today. Or go to a doctor if not sure about any possible symptoms.”
After catching the cancer early, Chris revealed it is “so so treatable”, revealing that “it is most common in men aged 18-49”.
“I also think it’s a tricky subject matter to talk about, but I’m willing to put my now one ball on the line here if it helps make that conversation less tricky for guys, encourages someone to check themselves and potentially saves a life,” he added.
Chris thanked his “incredible family”, who he said “stood by me and encouraged me to share what’s happened”.
He also expressed gratitude to his “brilliant friends and work colleagues for supporting me and my family”. Chris also praised the “incredible doctors, nurses, and hospital staff I’ve encountered, especially concerning cancer care”.
He concluded: “Check your balls.”
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Sian Welby praises Chris’ ‘unreal bravery’
After being absent from Capital FM, co-star Sian applauded Chris for his “unreal bravery” before he returned to work this morning.
She added: “I’ve never known anyone handle a situation with such class and determination. Can’t wait to have you back with us tomorrow.”
Many of Chris’s other showbiz pals also rushed to the comments section.
“God bless you for being valiant enough to share and advocate for all of us. You got this!” Michael Bublé wrote.
“Mate I didn’t know this. So happy you’re on the mend. See you soon mate,” Scott Robinson, who recently reunited with Five, also shared.
“Sending big love mate,” Strictly star Tom Dean added.
“Sending you so much love xx,” Rachel Stevens expressed.
“So so amazing that you’ve shared this. Always here for you,” Scott Mills added.
“Sending you love mate and brilliant you’re brave enough to talk about it, I’m sure it’ll help many other men,” James McVey wrote.
“SO glad you caught it quickly, salute for sharing!!!” The One Show host Clara Amfo shared.
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