Comedian, Richard Herring reveals blood cancer diagnosis
United Kingdom
Comedian, writer and broadcaster Richard Herring has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a rare type of blood cancer called hairy cell leukaemia.
Writing on his Substack, Herring shared that he recently began treatment.
The 58-year-old explained that although hairy cell leukaemia is considered incurable, it is highly treatable and many people live well with the condition for many years.
In his post, Herring wrote: "The good news is that it's entirely treatable and will not kill me."
Hairy cell leukaemia is a rare, slow-growing type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells called B lymphocytes. It is a form of chronic leukaemia and can develop gradually over a number of years.
Herring revealed that doctors had first detected a small number of abnormal cells in his bone marrow more than a decade ago, but the condition remained stable for many years before treatment became necessary.
He also praised NHS staff involved in his care, describing the nurses as "brilliant and funny" and expressing gratitude for the treatment he is receiving.
According to his post, Herring has started a course of treatment involving daily injections over five days.
What is hairy cell leukaemia?
Hairy cell leukaemia is a rare type of blood cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It gets its name from the tiny hair-like projections seen on the surface of the cancerous cells under a microscope.
Symptoms can include tiredness, frequent infections, bruising or bleeding more easily than usual, and an enlarged spleen. However, some people have few or no symptoms when they are diagnosed.
Everyone at Blood Cancer UK wishes Richard all the very best
Helen Rowntree, our CEO said:
“We're grateful to Richard for sharing his diagnosis so openly. Hairy cell leukaemia is a rare type of blood cancer, and while it is often highly treatable, hearing the words 'you have blood cancer' can be incredibly difficult. By sharing his story, Richard is helping raise awareness of blood cancer, the UK's fifth most common cancer, and reminding people that awareness and earlier diagnosis can help more people get the treatment and support they need."
