BBC Radio Scotland presenter Bryan Burnett has announced a temporary break from his beloved show Get It On, revealing live on air that he’s been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The 60-year-old shared the emotional news with listeners on Wednesday evening, confirming he’ll be undergoing abdominal surgery and chemotherapy next week.
“This is gonna be my last show for a wee while and I want to explain why that is,” he began. “Unfortunately, I’m gonna have to take some time off the show to have some treatment for cancer.”
Burnett disclosed that doctors discovered a tumour during recent appendix surgery. “When they removed my appendix recently, they discovered a tumour and appendix cancer is incredibly rare,” he explained. “But the good news is it is treatable. I do have to have some fairly hefty abdominal surgery next week.”
Though facing a daunting medical journey, Bryan remains hopeful. “I am expected to make a full recovery, which is good news, and I will be back on air, on the show that I truly love, later in the year.”
BBC has confirmed that radio veteran Grant Stott, 58, will fill in for Bryan during his absence. “When I’m off, Grant Stott will do most of the shows, so I know that Get It On will be in good hands,” Bryan said, also thanking his producers for their unwavering support. “A massive thank you to my brilliant producers for all the hand holding and all the encouragement that they’ve given me since they found out my news.”
Despite the challenge ahead, Bryan says he’ll find strength in music and memories shared with his loyal audience: “I will really miss the music and the chat when I’m off but our listeners have given me hundreds of great playlists so that will keep me going over the next few months.”
He ended on a touching note, praising the NHS staff caring for him: “I’ve experienced the most incredible care and kindness. My surgeon is a Get It On listener, so I know I’m in good hands.”
