Clare Balding has shared that she felt fortunate after discussing a serious health issue she faced. In December 2008, the 54-year-old noticed a significant lump on her throat while watching herself on TV. Following a visit to her family doctor, Clare received the diagnosis of thyroid cancer and required surgery.
Subsequently, Clare underwent three surgical procedures and received radioactive iodine therapy to treat the condition. The surgeries involved the removal of a cyst, her thyroid gland, and a lymph node. Despite experiencing a period of worry about the impact on her career, Clare emerged from the health scare and received a clean bill of health in 2010. She expressed gratitude for her recovery and the experience motivating her to seize every opportunity to live life to the fullest.
Reflecting on the diagnosis, Clare mentioned that she did not notice any physical changes initially. It was during a Christmas event at Olympia while reviewing a recording that she first spotted the lump. Prompted by her sister-in-law’s grandfather, who was a doctor, Clare sought medical attention and subsequently received the thyroid cancer diagnosis.
Despite concerns about potential damage to her vocal cords during surgery, Clare shared that she eventually regained her full range of vocal abilities. She also underwent radioactive iodine therapy as part of her treatment, which she found to be less severe than chemotherapy.