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BBC’s Nick Owen Shares Update on Prostate Cancer Fight
Veteran BBC presenter Nick Owen has provided a moving health update regarding his prostate cancer journey. The former TV-am personality, aged 77, has spoken candidly about what he described as the “worst day of his life” while expressing optimism about becoming “cancer free.” This revelation comes after Owen publicly disclosed his diagnosis of “extensive” and “aggressive” prostate cancer in August 2023, four months following the initial diagnosis in April.
Diagnosis and Initial Reaction
Speaking to a news outlet about receiving the serious diagnosis, Owen confessed, “It was possibly the worst day of my life.” He added, “But I’m still thriving, I’m still grateful. I’m feeling pretty well and glad to be where I am now. Hopefully I’m cancer free. I’m a lucky boy.”
Lack of Initial Symptoms and Detection
The BBC Midlands presenter previously mentioned experiencing no symptoms. However, routine blood tests revealed slightly elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. His general practitioner recommended consultation with a specialist, which subsequently led to further investigation, diagnosis, and eventual surgery.
Recounting the Diagnosis Day
Owen recounted the sequence of events on BBC One’s Midlands Today, stating: “I went to a specialist, he wasn’t overly concerned initially because my figures weren’t excessively high. Nevertheless, he recommended a scan, which indicated a potential issue. Consequently, he arranged for a biopsy.”
He continued, “The biopsy results were definitive and delivered on April 13th, a date indelibly marked in my memory. The specialist informed us that the cancer was extensive, indeed aggressive, and that I had full-blown prostate cancer requiring swift action. That day was arguably the most difficult day of my life, or certainly among them.”
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Emotional Toll and Support System
Reflecting on the immediate aftermath of the diagnosis, he shared: “It was a very bleak moment… driving home after receiving such news and then contacting loved ones. My phone was inundated for hours. It was an exceptionally challenging period for both myself and my wife Vicki, who remained steadfastly by my side throughout this ordeal.”
Positive Impact and Awareness
Since publicly sharing his experience, Owen noted that “hundreds” of men have contacted him, indicating that his story prompted them to undergo testing, leading to early detection in some instances.
He elaborated, “Each week, individuals write to me stating that hearing my story motivated them to get a PSA test, resulting in a diagnosis and subsequent operation. This occurs frequently, numbering in the hundreds. It is both astonishing and deeply moving. I am heartened that some positive outcome has arisen from this. It is crucial for individuals to get tested.”