Television presenter Kirsty Gallacher has shared a devastating health update, revealing that her benign brain tumour is 'growing very fast' as she undergoes radiotherapy treatment.
Court Appearance and Health Revelation
The former Sky Sports presenter, 49, made the emotional disclosure outside High Wycombe Magistrates' Court on Wednesday after receiving a six-month driving ban for a speeding offence. Gallacher, who was caught doing 35mph in a 30mph zone in Maiden's Green, Berkshire on April 1 this year, tearfully explained her ongoing health battle to reporters.
"I have a brain tumour – an acoustic neuroma – it is benign, but it's growing very fast," the TV star revealed. "They have monitored it for the last three years. I am now doing radiotherapy."
Uncertain Treatment Journey
Gallacher expressed uncertainty about whether her radiotherapy treatment would be successful in shrinking the tumour. "We don't know if the radiotherapy is going to work, if it will shrink [the tumour] or not," she admitted. "It's a bit of a 'suck it and see' situation."
The presenter, who was diagnosed with the benign acoustic neuroma during the summer of 2021, explained that she might require further treatment or possibly an operation depending on how the tumour responds. She recently took a week off to undergo her first radiotherapy session and must attend regular medical appointments.
Personal Struggles and Family Responsibilities
During the court hearing, Gallacher had attempted to apply for a driving ban exemption under mitigating circumstances, explaining that she is the sole carer and financial provider for her two sons, aged 18 and 15. The former Strictly Come Dancing star emphasised the practical challenges she faces, stating: "We live in the middle of the countryside. We're in the middle of nowhere. I take my son to school every morning."
Gallacher, who previously pleaded guilty to the speeding offence, told the court that public transport wasn't a "feasible" option where her family lives. She expressed concern that her younger son might miss out on extracurricular activities including golf and rugby if she were banned from driving.
The TV personality also revealed that she earns £150,000 per annum but has "no savings" and cannot afford to pay for a private driver or taxis. Adding to her recent difficulties, Gallacher explained that police believe an assault on her two weeks ago in Central London was a "targeted attack."
Earlier this year, during an appearance on Loose Women, Gallacher had described being "really nervous" about her treatment but noted that radiotherapy represented her best hope in the situation. She explained that her tumour is located in the inner-ear canal and described it as "very dangerous" and "basically inoperable," though she remains hopeful the treatment might "zap" the growth.
