Legendary Savannah Radio Host Diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer
Mark Robertson, the retired voice of Savannah's beloved soft rock station 98.7 The River, is confronting a formidable health challenge. The 73-year-old broadcasting icon has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a revelation shared by friends this week through social media platforms.
A Career Spanning Nearly Five Decades
Robertson concluded his remarkable 48-year radio career in July of last year, delivering his final broadcast to loyal Savannah listeners. His journey in broadcasting began after relocating from Brooklyn, New York, joining 98.7 The River in 1977 where he remained until his retirement. His signature sign-off, "It's Mark Robertson! Good morning, mine isn't very fast, but it'll take me home today," became familiar to generations of morning commuters.
Colleagues and Friends React with Heartfelt Support
Sandy McCloud, Robertson's co-host on The Mark and Sandy Morning Show, spoke exclusively with Savannah's NBC affiliate WSAV about her friend's diagnosis. "I was devastated to hear the news," McCloud revealed. "We used to always have as much fun as you can getting up at 5:30am to be with somebody. He was great."
McCloud emphasized Robertson's unique connection with his audience, describing his morning segments as feeling more like friendly conversations than traditional radio broadcasts. "When you're on the radio, especially on a morning show, you're trying to take the burden of people being angry in traffic," she explained. "I think a lot of people got to know Mark through those moments."
A Broadcaster with Heart and Compassion
Beyond his professional accomplishments, friends highlighted Robertson's personal qualities that endeared him to the community. McCloud recalled his well-documented love for animals, noting how he regularly publicized news about missing cats and dogs throughout his career. "He would often work to make just one person's day better," she stated, underscoring his compassionate nature.
Robertson's passion for radio began in childhood, as McCloud shared: "He used to tell me when he was growing up, he would listen to his old transistor radio with a little earpiece. He used to lie in bed and just dream about wanting to be a DJ."
The Serious Nature of the Diagnosis
The medical prognosis for stage 4 pancreatic cancer is particularly challenging. According to data from Johns Hopkins Medicine, this advanced stage carries a five-year survival rate of just 3.2 percent. Robertson is currently at home surrounded by caregivers, loved ones, and his cherished pets as he navigates this difficult journey.
A Legacy of Community Service
Throughout his career, Robertson demonstrated consistent commitment to charitable causes, particularly supporting families impacted by cancer. His profile on The River's website documents years of dedicated charity work for cancer-related organizations, reflecting his deep engagement with community welfare beyond the broadcast booth.
Friends and colleagues have flooded social media with messages of support and remembrance. "The only thing you can do is pray and remember good things and share the good moments," McCloud advised those wishing to support Robertson during this challenging time.
Robertson did not participate in WSAV's report, maintaining privacy during his treatment. His final broadcast last summer marked the end of an era for Savannah radio, with the veteran host describing the moment as "kind of bittersweet" after nearly five decades on air.
