Mark Steel, a 63-year-old comedian, writer, and podcaster, has shared his experience of surviving throat cancer and his immense relief at being given the all-clear by doctors. Steel first shared his diagnosis in October 2020 and has since undergone successful treatment. He praised the staff at University College London Hospital for being “astoundingly fantastic” throughout his treatment journey.
Steel noticed that his neck was looking unnaturally large while shaving and initially believed it was just an infection that would resolve on its own. However, he eventually sought medical attention and underwent a biopsy after his first test results were lost in transit. Steel was later informed that he had throat cancer that had spread to his lymph gland.
He underwent rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to manage his cancer. Steel admits that the treatment was brutal and not something he would recommend for recreational purposes. However, he remains grateful for the care he received from the healthcare staff, especially during his time in the chemotherapy room, which he describes as “one of the most positive places” he has ever been.
Receiving the news that he was cancer-free was a mundane experience for Steel, but it offered immense relief. The comedian believes that the success of his treatment is partially due to the magnificence of the health service and partly due to luck. Steel now has a new series of Mark Steel’s in Town scheduled for BBC Radio 4, and he hopes to continue his work as a comedian and writer.
For anyone affected by cancer, BBC Action Line provides information and support
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More