TV star opens up about her battle with chronic myeloid leukaemia
Edwina Bartholomew, a beloved Australian television presenter, recently revealed her shock cancer diagnosis. During an emotional segment on Sunrise, the 41-year-old shared that she had been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Despite the shock, Edwina expressed gratitude for early detection and urged Australians to take their health seriously.
A Tearful Revelation on Sunrise
On Friday’s Sunrise, Edwina Bartholomew struggled to hold back tears as she delivered the difficult news. “I have been diagnosed with cancer,” she said. “It is hard to say, but I have chronic myeloid leukaemia. It can be treated with a daily tablet, and if I take care of myself, I will be fine.”
Bartholomew revealed that she had no symptoms apart from simple tiredness, which she had attributed to her early-morning work schedule. “I wake up at 3 a.m. every day, so I thought it was normal fatigue.”
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A Lucky Diagnosis
The TV star credited her Sunrise co-host, Natalie Barr, for prompting her to seek medical advice. After Barr’s own skin cancer scare, Bartholomew decided to get a mammogram, skin check, and routine blood tests. While her mammogram and skin check were clear, her blood tests raised concern.
“One of the tests showed abnormal levels,” she explained. “I’m so lucky we caught it.”
CML is a slow-progressing cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. If left untreated, it can become severe. Bartholomew expressed relief that she had received early treatment and is responding well to medication.
Urging Australians to Get Checked
Edwina Bartholomew chose to share her story to encourage others to prioritise their health. “I had no symptoms apart from being tired. That’s common with CML. You often don’t have any warning signs,” she said. “If I hadn’t gone to the doctor, I’d be facing a very different situation today.”
She especially urged mothers, who often prioritise the needs of their families, to take time for themselves. “Please check in with your doctor,” she implored. “It’s so important.”
Support from Colleagues and Friends
Bartholomew expressed deep gratitude for her colleagues and friends who supported her throughout her diagnosis. She particularly thanked Natalie Barr for encouraging her to get tested and for providing emotional support. “Natalie has been incredible,” Bartholomew said. “She constantly checked in on me and even sent meals.”
Bartholomew also thanked her co-hosts Monique Wright and Sally Bowrey for adjusting their schedules to allow her to prioritise her health.
A Positive Outlook
Despite the difficult diagnosis, Edwina Bartholomew remains optimistic about the future. “I feel very positive about it,” she said. “It’s the luckiest unlucky thing that’s ever happened to me.”
The TV star revealed that she has reacted well to her medication, which she will need to take daily for the foreseeable future. “I’m beyond grateful that I found out early and that the treatment is working so well,” she said.
Taking Time Off for Health
Bartholomew also announced that she would be reducing her workload. She plans to take time off in September to focus on her health and family. When she returns to Sunrise, she will cut down her work responsibilities to a few days a week. “I need to rest and take care of myself,” she said.
Her colleagues expressed their admiration for her strength and positivity. Matt Shirvington, another co-host on Sunrise, praised her for her resilience. “Eddie, you’ve taken this on with such a positive attitude,” he said.
A Call for Awareness
Bartholomew’s tearful announcement prompted an outpouring of support from viewers, colleagues, and friends. Social media flooded with messages of love and encouragement. “All the love and hugs, Eddie – we’re with you,” wrote TV personality Georgie Tunny.
The Project’s Jacqueline Felgate also chimed in, commenting, “You got this, queen!”
Many viewers expressed shock and sadness upon hearing the news, but also praised Bartholomew for her courage in sharing her story. “Eddie, we love you,” wrote one fan. “You are an amazing, strong woman.”
What is Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia?
CML is a rare form of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It progresses slowly and often shows no symptoms in the early stages. Common symptoms, when they do appear, include fatigue, bone pain, fever, and weight loss. Advances in treatment have greatly improved the prognosis for people with CML. Most people diagnosed with the disease can achieve remission and live for many years with proper care.
Bartholomew’s openness about her experience serves as a vital reminder for everyone to prioritise regular health checks.
