Broadcasting legend Dame Esther Rantzen has revealed that she has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
In a statement, the 82-year-old - known for her philanthropy - said that doctors had made the discovery in the last few weeks but despite the disease having spread, she remains "optimistic" of a positive outcome.
She said: "At the age of 82, this diagnosis has prompted me to look back over the years, and I want to express my profound thanks to everyone who has made my life so joyful, filled with fun, and with inspiration.
"First and foremost my family. My three children Miriam, Rebecca and Joshua have been the most wonderful support, company, and source of love and laughter and I am deeply grateful to them.
"My friends have been amazing and have created memories which sustain me and give me strength.
"My colleagues with whom I have worked, and continue to work with in broadcasting, journalism, the voluntary sector, and in many other organisations, have been a constant pleasure, and have amazed me with their tolerance of my wild ideas and awful jokes.
"I have been continuously inspired by the courageous children, older people and viewers who have trusted me with their life stories. I have always tried to live up to that trust.
"As I am sure you will understand, while I am awaiting the results of the tests, I am unable to answer questions.
"Thanks to the extraordinary skills of the medical profession there are wonderful new treatments, so I am remaining optimistic."
Rantzen is perhaps best known as host of the consumer advice show That's Life!, which ran on the BBC from 1973 to 1994, while she is also the founder of the Childline and Silver Line helplines.
Neil Wilkes
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