Rhod Gilbert, the comedian and TV presenter, has announced that he is being treated for cancer.
Carmarthen’s 53-year-old man said he was a patient at the Velindre Cancer Center in Cardiff, a hospital he has been a patron of for a decade and for which he has raised funds.
He shared a message on his Facebook page thanking the center staff and said that before his diagnosis he never imagined he would become a patient there.
Gilbert, who has presented shows like Apprentice: You’re Fired and the final series of Never Mind the Buzzcocks in 2015, did not reveal the type of cancer he was being treated for.
He said: “As a proud patron of the Velindre Cancer Center, I have traveled the world, organized chaotic quizzes and comedy nights full of stars. I have met and befriended so many inspiring staff, patients and their families. It has been a big part of my life for the last 10 years.
“So while I never imagined I would be a patient here, I know better than anyone that I’m in the best hands possible. The NHS care I get is amazing.
“I wouldn’t wish that on anyone … but who knows, maybe I’ll go to the other end with a new stand-up show and a 40-minute diary about the orange pumpkin.”
The Welsh station has been a regular guest on panel programs such as Would I Lie to You ?, QI and Mock the Week, as well as presenting its own BBC Radio Wales program.
Gilbert, who married writer and comedian Sian Harries in 2013, also thanked her friends and family for their support.
He said, “I’ll be gone for a while and not comment anymore, at least not for the time being, as I focus on my recovery.”
Gilbert added that he was working to reschedule his Book of John comedy tour for early 2023.
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The comedian, who had done about 200 shows, said, “I’m really discouraged that we haven’t been able to do the last seven shows as planned, but rest assured, we’ll do our best to finish what we started.”
Velindre Cancer Center said in a statement on its Facebook page: “For over 10 years, Patron Rhod Gilbert has provided exceptional support to Velindre Cancer Charity and has always been an advocate for the passionate efforts of our staff, donors and fundraisers from the Velindre Cancer Center.
“Rhod has become a special member of our Velindre family and we are confident that you will join us in sending him your best wishes during this time.”