Dr Punam Krishan, known for her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, returned to BBC Morning Live on Friday to share her breast cancer diagnosis. The 42-year-old doctor and mother of two revealed she was diagnosed five months ago and has since completed treatment.
Speaking to hosts Gethin Jones and Michelle Ackerley, Dr Krishan said she decided to go public to help others. 'I don't want anyone worrying, I'm through my treatment, I'm ok. I'm well, I'm healing,' she said. She described the moment of diagnosis as a shock, adding that despite being a doctor for over 20 years, 'nothing prepares you to receive that news.'
Dr Krishan credited her instinct for prompting her to seek medical advice, even though she did not find a lump. 'Trusting your instinct is so important. I went to my GP early and my GP was incredible,' she said. Her consultant told her that a six-month delay could have led to a 'very different picture,' emphasising that early detection saves lives.
She praised the NHS and her support network, including her husband, family, and friends, for allowing her space to cope. As a mother, she acknowledged the extra challenge of facing a diagnosis while caring for young children. 'You don't have the luxury of falling apart. You have to continue to show up,' she said.
Dr Krishan expressed her determination not to let the diagnosis define her, saying, 'I'm still Punam.' She looks forward to returning to work, bringing a new empathy to her patients: 'I get it, I get it.' Her Instagram announcement earlier this week received an outpouring of support from fans and celebrities.
