Davina McCall delivered an emotional speech in her first public appearance following brain surgery. The 57-year-old TV presenter, known for her roles on shows like Big Brother and The Masked Singer, recently underwent a successful operation to remove a 14mm-wide benign brain tumour called a colloid cyst. This type of tumour is rare, affecting only three in a million people. The surgery was performed by neurosurgeon Kevin O’Neill, who is also a chair of the Brain Tumour Research Campaign charity.
Speaking at an event at All Saints Church in Fulham, McCall thanked attendees for their support and shared her personal connection to the cause. She acknowledged the struggles faced by others in the audience, many of whom were on their own brain tumour journeys or had lost loved ones to the condition. Reflecting on her own experiences, she mentioned the loss of her sister to a brain tumour in 2012 and her former father-in-law to the same condition just a year ago.
McCall’s heartfelt words emphasized the importance of funding for brain tumour research. The Brain Tumour Research Campaign works to raise awareness and support for increased research funding, aiming to improve treatments and ultimately find a cure. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges associated with brain tumours.
The charity expressed gratitude for McCall’s involvement, praising her courage and grace in sharing her story. Her advocacy brought attention to the critical need for advancing research in this area. The event was described as a moving and inspiring evening, setting a hopeful tone for the ongoing work of the charity.
McCall first revealed her diagnosis in November, explaining that the tumour was discovered during a courtesy health check-up she received as part of her menopause advocacy work. Following the successful surgery, she shared updates on her recovery, expressing gratitude to her surgeon and medical team for their exceptional care. Despite initial challenges, including post-surgery confusion and short-term memory issues, she reported steady improvement.
In a candid update, McCall recounted waking up disoriented after the operation, which caused concern for her surgeon and her partner, celebrity hairstylist Michael Douglas. However, she reassured her followers that she was recovering well and thanked her medical team for their efforts. She also acknowledged the temporary impact on her memory, noting that it was improving daily.
McCall’s journey has underscored the importance of regular health check-ups and early detection. Her advocacy extends beyond brain tumour awareness; in recent years, she has become a prominent voice for menopause education. In 2022, she published a book titled Menopausing: The Positive Roadmap To Your Second Spring, aiming to dispel myths and stigma surrounding menopause.
Throughout her career, McCall has been a familiar face on British television, hosting a variety of popular programmes. Her resilience and openness about her health challenges have further endeared her to fans, making her a relatable and inspiring figure. By sharing her story, she has shed light on the personal and emotional impact of brain tumours, while also championing the need for continued research and support.
As she continues her recovery, McCall remains committed to raising awareness for brain tumour research and menopause education. Her experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of health advocacy and the strength that can be found in sharing personal struggles. Through her work and public appearances, she continues to inspire others to prioritize their health and support vital medical research.