featured-image

EXCLUSIVE 'I never expected to see my 84th. I'll make the most of every moment.' As she celebrates her birthday, Esther Rantzen reveals how she's defied doctors' expectations after her diagnosis of aggressive lung cancer By Jenny Johnston Published: 16:10, 21 June 2024 | Updated: 17:11, 21 June 2024 e-mail 5 View comments Nature's bunting is up in Dame Esther Rantzen 's beloved garden in the New Forest.

The tulips – the ones she dithered over planting, because she didn't think she'd live to see them bloom – have been and gone. Now the roses are in full flower, and providing genuine joy. What a day to be alive.



And what a lovely time of the year to celebrate a birthday. Dame Esther turns 84 tomorrow, which seems remarkable, perhaps especially to her. When she was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer last year, the doctors told her there was little they could do – although they did hurl a little lifeline in the form of an experimental drug which could delay, if not eradicate, the inevitable.

It is still holding, and while it would be an exaggeration to say Dame Esther is still blooming herself, she's here, and enjoying the view . 'I certainly never expected to see this birthday – it's a tribute to the new cancer treatments which seem to be holding it back,' she tells me. 'So I am taking each day as an extra treat and trying to make the most of every moment.

' What a vintage year 1940 was, in terms of providing us with national treasures. Today, Esther – who always loved .

Back to Food Page