Kirsty Gallacher shares disheartening cancer update
Kirsty Gallacher was diagnosed with acoustic neuroma in 2021
Television presenter Kirsty Gallacher has opened up about her ongoing struggle with a brain tumour, revealing that one of her symptoms has become “sadly much worse.” The 50‑year‑old broadcaster was diagnosed in 2021 with an acoustic neuroma, a benign tumour that grows on the nerve connecting the ear to the brain.
Treatment and Next Steps
Gallacher explained while speaking with Vanessa Feltz on her TV show that she underwent radiotherapy last year and is now awaiting an MRI scan to assess whether the treatment has worked. While radiotherapy cannot remove the tumour completely, doctors hope it will shrink the growth and stop it from progressing further.
Symptoms Worsening
She said: “I found out I had basically a brain tumour, an acoustic neuroma in my right ear.
“I went deaf a few years ago, and I had radiotherapy last year, so I’ve got my MRI coming up soon where we’ll know whether it’s worked.
“The success rate’s very good, it’s not going to get rid of it. It’s whether it shrinks it and sort of kills the DNA that keeps making it grow, really.”
She added, “It’s hard, I’m very hard of hearing now in my right ear, and the tinnitus is far worse than it was sadly when I was here a year ago.”
Impact on Career
Her health struggles forced her to step away from her role as a GB News anchor in August 2024. She has also shared hospital photos from her treatment journey, underscoring the seriousness of her condition and her determination to be transparent with fans.
Looking Ahead
Gallacher acknowledged the uncertainty of her situation, saying further radiotherapy or even surgery may be required depending on the results of her upcoming MRI. By speaking openly, she continues to raise awareness about the impact of such tumours and the importance of monitoring symptoms closely.
