Lorraine Kelly has announced the death of her friend Hazel, a member of the Change + Check Choir who often appeared on her ITV daytime show. The presenter shared the news in an emotional Instagram tribute on Thursday, 8 October.
Tribute to a 'force of nature'
Alongside a photo of the pair together, Lorraine wrote: "Sad news. Our Hazel has died. Thoughts with her family and friends and all the members of our Change and Check Choir. Glad I got to know this force of nature. CHECK YOUR BOOBS!!! #love #loss #remember."
The Change + Check Choir was formed in 2023 and is made up of women who learned of their breast cancer diagnosis after coming across the campaign on Lorraine's show.
Fans share their condolences
Lorraine was inundated with messages from followers who also paid tribute to Hazel. One wrote: "Truly a wonderful woman, who was a joy every time she was in the studio. Sending her family so much love."
A second said: "Oh my goodness, I am lost for words. What a special, kind lady, I am lost for words, what an honour to know Hazel." Another penned: "Heartbroken. Hazel, another Golden girl taken too soon. Hazel embraced C+C with all her heart and was such a joy, always smiling and laughing. I will miss her so much." A fourth noted: "Sad news indeed. She was, however, admirable - as are you and all your fabulous girls - for raising awareness and facing the challenges head-on!"
Breast cancer awareness campaign
Lorraine has been championing breast cancer awareness on her show for the past seven years. She recently launched 'National Check Your Boobs Day', an annual event that encourages women to regularly check and monitor their breast health.
Speaking about the campaign this month, she said: "Launching Britain's first ever 'National Check Your Boobs Day' is a huge step forward and will hopefully be a crucial reminder for everyone to prioritise their breast health. This is something that truly matters to me, and I'm so grateful for all the support we receive from the public and our partners to get this vital message out there."
