Welsh comedian Rhod Gilbert has provided an encouraging update on his health following his battle with stage four head and neck cancer. Speaking on “The One Show,” Gilbert joyfully revealed that he remains cancer-free.
Diagnosed in July 2022, Gilbert underwent a rigorous treatment regimen, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Now in recovery, he continues to receive care from the Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff, which he described as “wonderful.”
Gilbert’s Journey and Resilience
During his appearance on the BBC show, hosted by Alex Jones and Jermaine Jenas, Gilbert expressed his gratitude and amazement at his current state. “Still checks every few weeks, at the moment. I mean, I feel wonderful,” he said. Despite ongoing health issues, Gilbert remains positive: “I have got a lot of issues that I may or may not have for the rest of my life. But who cares? I am here, I am good.”
The comedian is now back on stage with his latest tour, “Rhod Gilbert and The Giant Grapefruit.” The show’s title, a playful nod to Roald Dahl’s “James And The Giant Peach,” also references the tumor that was in his neck. Gilbert humorously compared dealing with cancer to making lemonade out of lemons, albeit with grapefruits: “When life starts throwing grapefruits at you, which is even worse in my opinion!”
A New Show with a Purpose
Despite the heavy topic, Gilbert’s new show is described as “happy” and “uplifting.” He aims to infuse his stand-up comedy with humor while openly discussing his cancer journey. Gilbert shared that his performances often attract cancer patients, creating an unexpected but supportive community. “We play cancer bingo some nights,” he said, laughing about the dark yet therapeutic humor shared with his audience.
Gilbert emphasized the power of laughter in reclaiming control over life: “Taking some power back from this wretched disease by laughing at it.”
Gilbert’s story and his return to comedy serve as a testament to his resilience and determination to spread joy and laughter, even in the face of adversity.