Absolute Radio host Matt Forde announces he is now “cancer free” following succesful surgery to remove part of spine

ABSOLUTE Radio host Matt Forde has announced he is now “cancer free” following a successful operation on his spine.

The 41-year-old shared the shocking news last year that he had developed sciatica as a result of a spinal tumour and would therefore be taking a hiatus while he awaited surgery.

However, Forde from Nottingham, East Midlands, revealed the good news today that surgery had been a success and having a section of his spine removed was “100% worth it to be cancer free.”

He added that, despite being unable to stand up, he is grateful to the NHS staff for the operation and is now due to return to the popular radio show on 3 February.

Returning to social media for the first time since October, Forde shared in a post: “Some personal news. I’m alive.

“This will sound mad, but having cancer and having it removed, along with part of my spine, has been the most wonderful experience of my life.

“I’ve met the most exceptional people who have given me the privilege of living longer. I’m adapting to the changes to my body, all of which are 100% worth it to be cancer free.

“So, what does anyone who’s survived cancer and life-changing surgery want to do the most? Work.

“I cannot wait to be back on Absolute Radio on Saturday 3 February, and I’ll return to British Scandal and The Political Party soon after.

“Stand-up will take me a bit longer to return to, mainly as I can’t adequately stand up. I owe my life to the phenomenal staff at Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital.

“It is an exceptional hospital. Not that it’s the main point, but the food there is fantastic.

“Thanks also to the Rheumatology Day unit at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, who first discovered my tumour. The NHS, eh.”

The post received over 1,200 likes and more than 110 comments as a flurry of supportive fans congratulated Forde.

One person wrote: “Wonderful news, Matt. I shall very much look forward to not seeing you in Sheffield in March but will very much look forward to seeing you fighting fit at a future date. Much love.”

Another said: “Amazing news and personally know that feeling of being petrified initially but also that feeling of feeling very lucky to be here.

“The small stuff you no longer sweat and it’s amazing [the] things you start recognising more than ever. Even just the birds singing is a wonder.”

A third commented: “Glad to hear it! Take care of yourself. Make sure those treat bowls are healthy ones.”

A fourth added: “Boom. Great to hear this, Matt. Brilliant news for you and your family and positive news surrounding cancer diagnosis. It can be treated, if detected early enough.”

A spinal tumour – also known as an intradural tumour – is a growth that can amalgamate from the spinal canal or the bones of the spine.

Symptoms include pain at the site of the tumour, back pains, loss of bladder function, difficulty walking and loss of sensation – particularly in arms or legs.

Sufferers may also experience a weakness in the muscles throughout the body.

It is vital to seek medical attention if you are experiencing a progressive weakness in the muscles or if there is a numbness in the arms and legs.

ENDS