I had to learn to walk again, reveals Parky
SIR Michael Parkinson has revealed he has learned to walk again after undergoing surgery on his back.
The chat show veteran, 82, who battled prostate cancer in recent years, confirmed he was able to “stagger around” after he had two ruptured discs repaired in his spine.
“I’ve been ill for the last five years. I’ve overcome prostate cancer but it’s been a difficult period of my life,” he admitted yesterday.
“My spinal operation has involved a long and unpleasant recovery but what gets me through is the thought of not becoming redundant.
“I don’t want to be on the waste heap and that, more than anything else, is the best motivation for anyone growing old.”
Sir Michael said his surgeon came to him around two months ago and insisted that he performed an operation on his spine after having “kept the inevitable at bay” for 11 years.
“So we did it, and it’s been successful but you have to learn to walk again when you’ve had all that,” he added.
“I’m still not too great on my feet but I can stagger around and do my work and there is nothing wrong with the mind.”
The broadcaster said he does not “take a pessimistic view” of prostate cancer. He was diagnosed in 2013 and given the all-clear in 2015.
He added: “Same with the spinal operation. I knew it wasn’t going to be pleasant but I knew I wasn’t going to bloody die of it. I hope not anyway.
“A lot don’t do that and leave it too late. I know a couple of people who waited too long. You’ve got to get it checked because it is not a pleasant experience. Even if you survive it, there are still ramifications.” Sir Michael is known for his celebrity television interviews.
Among the interviewees were Hollywood actor Marlon Brando as well as legendary boxer Muhammad Ali and singer Madonna.