Davina McCall is currently recovering after undergoing surgery to remove a rare brain tumour, as confirmed by her partner, Michael Douglas. The TV presenter, 57, had previously revealed in a video on Instagram that she had been diagnosed with a benign tumour called a colloid cyst. Following the surgery, Douglas shared an update, stating that McCall was “out of surgery” and recovering in the hospital. He also expressed gratitude for the well-wishers who had shown love and support during this time.
In her Instagram post, McCall explained how the tumour was discovered by chance during a routine health scan offered to her after a menopause talk she gave. She described the colloid cyst as rare, with a size of 14mm, and emphasized the importance of having it removed to prevent any potential growth-related complications. The surgery involved a craniotomy, a procedure where part of the skull is removed to extract the tumour.
McCall reassured her followers that she was in good hands and had faith in her medical team. She anticipated spending around nine days in the hospital post-operation and encouraged her supporters not to worry, as she was focused on her recovery. Douglas mentioned that he would be managing her social media temporarily while she recuperated.
Colloid cysts, like the one McCall had, are fluid-filled growths that develop in the brain and account for a small percentage of primary brain tumours. They can cause symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, and nausea if they grow and block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. The rate of growth and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, and some cysts may not require immediate treatment if they are small and asymptomatic.
Recognizing the impact of McCall’s openness about her health journey, various organizations, including The Brain Tumour Charity and Brainstrust, commended her for raising awareness about brain tumours. They highlighted the importance of supporting individuals affected by brain tumours and funding research initiatives to improve outcomes for patients.
In addition to her TV career, which includes hosting shows like Big Brother and Long Lost Family, McCall has been actively involved in advocating for menopause awareness. Her efforts to destigmatize menopause and promote understanding of women’s health have been widely recognized, with her documentary and book both contributing to increased awareness of menopause-related issues.
Overall, McCall’s courage in sharing her experience with a brain tumour serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection, treatment, and ongoing support for individuals facing similar health challenges. Her journey underscores the resilience and strength required to navigate medical interventions and underscores the value of community support during difficult times.