Comedian Rhod Gilbert is undergoing treatment for cancer, he has revealed. The 53-year-old from Carmarthen said he is a patient at Cardiff’s Velindre Cancer Center – a hospital he patronizes and fundraises for it.
“I know better than anyone that I am in the best possible hands,” he said in a Facebook post, announcing the news.
After cancelling shows due to issues with his throat, he paused his Book of John tour last week.
“As a proud patron of Velindre Cancer Centre, I’ve trekked the world, hosted chaotic quizzes and star-studded comedy nights,” he said.
“I’ve met and made friends with so many inspirational staff, patients and their families. It has been a massive part of my life for the last ten years.
“So while I never imagined that I would be a patient here, I know better than anyone that I am in the best possible hands. The NHS care I’m receiving is incredible.”
“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone… but who knows, maybe I’ll come out the other end with a new stand-up show and a 40-minute rant about orange squash,” he added.
“Thank you, everyone, for your support over the last few weeks and months (and years). I’ll disappear for a while and won’t comment further, at least not for now, whilst I focus on my recovery.”
The comedian had announced last week that dates after 9 July in Swansea, Hereford, Yeovil, and Truro would be postponed.