Dame Esther Rantzen has made a devastating revelation about her health, confirming that the medication once keeping her terminal cancer at bay is no longer working.
The 84-year-old broadcasting legend, known for founding the life-saving helpline Childline, spoke candidly about the reality of living with a terminal illness and how she is preparing for the time she has left.
Speaking to The Times, Rantzen said, “Recently my wonder drug has stopped working. I am trying a different treatment. Some days are better than others.”
Her update follows a statement from her daughter, TV presenter Rebecca Wilcox, who revealed last month that the cancer treatment had lost effectiveness.
Despite the decline, Rantzen remains remarkably composed. “I know my own future is extremely limited,” she shared. “So now I enjoy each day as it comes as an extra bonus.”
Now spending her time immersed in quizzes, antique shows, and the peaceful beauty of her spring garden in the New Forest, Rantzen continues to find joy in the simple things. “I’m never bored,” she said. “I even appreciate insomnia — lying in my comfy bed listening to Radio 4 and the World Service.”
She also reaffirmed her support for the assisted dying bill and revealed that she had joined the Swiss organisation Dignitas as a means to maintain control over her end-of-life choices. “It seems to have struck a nerve with the public,” she said. “So to my surprise, the assisted dying campaign found me. But it would be nice to think I’m still useful.”
Reflecting on her legacy and the life lessons she holds dearest, Rantzen spoke of love: “Love is what sustains and inspires you. The greatest loves of my life have been my late, much-missed husband Desmond, our three children, and my closest friends.”
