A popular BBC presenter is being forced to step down from her role after receiving a heartbreaking Alzheimer's diagnosis. BBC radio star, Janice Forsyth, 65, has revealed she has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease after being noticeably missing from her weekday afternoon show for some time. The BBC Scotland presenter has spoken out about first experiencing symptoms three years ago, having since struggled to perform some daily tasks.
Praising the care she has received from the NHS, Janice said in a statement that she recognised that she has been absent "for a while" and how she has now reached the stage of wanting to let people know the reason why. Explaining that she initially thought she was "simply worn out" by her many years of freelance work or "exhausted" after the devastating loss of her "dear" mother, Patricia, she said: "Sadly, I now have a firm diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer's disease. Much as I have loved seeking out and sharing the best of music/literature/theatre/cinema with you, I’m happy now to have the time and freedom to enjoy all of these simply for my own pleasure. Call it living in the moment, and you won’t be far off!".
Adding that she'll still be able to continue with her podcast production company, she continued: “On another positive note, I’ve been able to continue to contribute to The Big Light - the podcast production company I founded five years ago with Fiona White. The company is going from strength to strength and we're excited for more to come. I’m not done yet!. “So, finding the cause of my trouble took a while, but I at least now know what’s been happening and am grateful for lovely friends & family, as well as for fine post-diagnosis care from NHS Scotland.".
Janice concluded: “Dear Listener - I never took my role lightly and hope I always gave my best, both for your sake and that of my interviewees. It’s been a blast, and I send a high five to everyone who tuned in on Saturday mornings or on more recent weekday afternoons and heard something interesting. Love, Janice Forsyth.". Following her heartbreaking sign-off, the presenter also revealed she has taken a step back from social media for her own privacy.
Paying tribute to Janice, who has presented shows on Radio Scotland, Radio Three and Radio Four, as well as setting up podcasting production firm, The Big Light, Louise Thornton, the head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, said: “Janice has been a hugely popular personality on our airwaves for many years. The many production teams she has collaborated with have appreciated her outstanding skill as a presenter on radio and television.
“Her warmth, relaxed interviewing style, and peerless knowledge of arts, music, and culture in Scotland and beyond, have made her a firm favourite with audiences over the decades. “Everyone at BBC Scotland wishes Janice all the very best and we’ll be pleased to continue to explore suitable opportunities where we can work together.”. Speaking to the Mirror about Janice's diagnosis, Dementia UK's Chief Admiral Nurse and CEO, Dr Hilda Hayo, praised the presenter for her bravery, saying : “We’re sorry to hear that Janice Forsyth has been diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s disease. A familiar face to many, Janice has shown bravery by announcing her diagnosis publicly and we hope she and her family are receiving the support they need at this time.
“By choosing to speak publicly about her diagnosis, Janet will raise vital awareness of young onset dementia and we hope this will encourage others to seek support if they are concerned about their brain health. “There are estimated to be around 70,800 people living with young onset dementia in the UK – where symptoms occur before the age of 65. Obtaining a diagnosis of young onset dementia can be challenging, and it is often even harder to find age-appropriate support. But it is important to know that you are not alone and that expert care is available.
“We encourage anyone affected by dementia to visit dementiauk.org/get-support for information, resources and to find out how to access our national Helpline and Clinics services.”. * If you need advice or support on living with dementia, contact Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 or email helpline@dementiauk.org. The Helpline is staffed by experienced Admiral Nurses. You can also book a free video or phone appointment to get expert dementia support from an Admiral Nurse. Find out more at dementiauk.org/appointment.
