I have one message for you: Please watch Stand Up to Cancer because it saves lives

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My dad battled stomach cancer at 55 and leukemia at 69. Shortly before he passed away, he wished me luck with my life in London. Two years later, when I was asked to host Stand Up to Cancer, those words meant even more to me. It felt like he was asking me to do this in his memory. He died at the end of 2012, and even though it’s been 13 years, I still feel like I’m doing this work for him.

My friend and co-host, Davina McCall, recently shared some personal news: she had surgery for breast cancer. Thankfully, she says it was detected very early, which is fortunate.

I was so impressed by all the work she does for Stand Up to Cancer, especially this year, that I immediately messaged her to say so. Her reply? She wrote back, “This is why I love you!” I’ve often said that the key to great live television is simply working alongside Davina McCall.

The most important thing is to get checked for cancer without delay, and that’s the core message of our Stand Up to Cancer campaign. We really need to spread this awareness, especially because Cancer Research UK data shows at least nine million people in the UK are overdue for vital cancer screening.

I used to be scared of getting screened for bowel cancer. In Australia, they recommend it at age 50 [and similar screenings are available in other parts of the UK at slightly different ages]. I actually put off doing the test for four years – I was worried about what they might find and felt embarrassed about sending a sample. Now I realize how important it is to get checked promptly, as early detection can be life-saving.

Both the Princess of Wales and the King revealed they have cancer in 2024, serving as a powerful reminder that cancer can affect anyone. It doesn’t discriminate based on status, wealth, or position.

Stand Up to Cancer is a bi-annual fundraising event that, since launching in the UK in 2012, has raised over £113 million. This money has supported 73 clinical trials and research projects, benefiting more than 13,000 cancer patients across the country. Funded research includes cutting-edge techniques like robotic and laser surgery, artificial intelligence for cancer detection and treatment, and even innovative early detection methods like special lollipops for mouth cancer.

Each time we present the show, it seems like there’s been exciting progress in treatment options – new therapies and less harsh methods like radiation or chemotherapy. However, because this work happens behind the scenes with dedicated scientists, it doesn’t often get the attention it deserves.

This year, alongside new episodes of Celebrity Gogglebox and The Last Leg, we’re excited to bring something new to UK television: live consultations with cancer specialists from Addenbrooke’s and Royal Papworth Hospitals. We’ll be showing these appointments as they happen to give viewers a clearer understanding of what to expect in a cancer clinic and hopefully ease some of the anxiety around getting a diagnosis.

The show’s producers asked if there was anything I wouldn’t do. Honestly, I’ve done some pretty wild things for charity! In 2021, I got a wax while doing a bungee jump, and in 2020, I had a live prostate exam on TV to encourage men to get checked. I think I’ve pretty much done it all!

If I could share one thing with viewers, it’s please tune in – it truly makes a difference. We aim to entertain you for three hours, but also to demonstrate the impact of your generous donations. Even a small contribution, like five pounds, can help save a life.

You can learn more about Stand Up to Cancer, get involved in their initiatives, or make a donation by visiting their website.

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2025-11-28 20:15