BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris, 80, has announced a positive turn in his health, revealing that his cancer treatment is "getting back under control." Known for his distinctive 'whispering' voice, Harris shared the update on Instagram on Sunday, expressing his thrill at delivering the good news regarding his 19-year battle with prostate cancer.
"I was speaking this morning with my oncologist, the amazing Costi and we are going to continue with my cancer treatment," Harris said in a video shared on the platform. "We're getting back under control. I was a little bit worried a short time ago, but everything is getting back under control now... I can see the pathway of my life ahead of me opening up again."
He captioned the post, "The sun is shining and I'm so happy to bring you this fantastic news. Never lose the faith folks! The weekend starts here…"
Colleagues and friends shared their support, with Dermot O'Leary commenting, "The best news. Well done champ x," while Sarah Millican added, "Wonderful news xxx," and DJ Trevor Nelson wrote, "Really happy for you Bob."
Following the update, Harris embarked on a weekend trip to Oxfordshire with his sons, Dylan and Ben, sharing a selfie from their outing.
Earlier this month, Harris had provided a less optimistic update, stating that the stage four prostate cancer was "taking more of a hold." In June, he announced that his health issues had necessitated his stepping down from hosting his Radio 2 shows, "Radio 2 Country" and "Sounds Of The 70s," after a 56-year broadcasting career.
At that time, Harris shared photos from his hospital bed, explaining to his 104,000 Instagram followers that there had been "some changes with my cancer diagnosis." He noted that while he had been missing his programs, the break had allowed him to enjoy time with loved ones during a "most beautiful summer."
"It has been a while since I last posted a health update and I want to let you know how I'm getting on, because there have been some changes with my cancer diagnosis," he had written. "As regular followers will know, earlier this year I was forced to step back from @bbcradio2 to concentrate on treatment and rest. I have been missing my programmes so much, but this space has given me a most beautiful summer here at home, enjoying a most precious commodity… TIME."
He continued, "I feel very blessed to have been able to spend lovely moments with family and friends (some of which I've posted here on Instagram) in the glorious summer sunshine, but during this time my cancer has been getting more of a hold."
Harris had assured fans that he still felt well and was beginning an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy, which he was confident would help manage the disease. He mentioned that he expected to know the outcome of this treatment soon. Referencing the possibility of living with stage four prostate cancer, he cited the example of cyclist Chris Hoy, acknowledging it as an "emotional roller coaster."
"But, as you know, I'm an extremely positive person, and I continue to be determined to continue to get the best out of everyday," Harris stated. He offered a message of encouragement to those facing difficulties: "NEVER GIVE IN. Fight with all your might to keep going."
He acknowledged the challenges, admitting, "It isn't always easy. I was in tears when I left the hospital with my son Miles on Friday."
Despite his health battles, Harris indicated he was continuing to work, announcing the launch of a new playlist service on his website and confirming his intention to perform at his "Stand By Me Concert" with Robert Plant at the Royal Albert Hall on December 2nd. "I am still working and looking way into the future," he concluded. "Thank you for all the love and support you send me. Your kind words mean more than you will ever know. And always remember… live every day the best you can and just keep going. You can do this. Sending you the best of my love."