Tessa Jowell reveals brain cancer fight on 70th birthday
DaME Tessa Jowell has been battling brain cancer for the past four months, it was revealed yesterday.
The former Labour culture secretary was pictured with her family on her 70th birthday yesterday as her daughter-in-law made the news public. Baroness Jowell and her family used the moment to vow to help others suffering from cancer to live longer.
In a photo posted on Instagram, the former Cabinet minister, who was wearing a hat, was flanked by her son Matt Mills and his wife Ella Mills, the food author better known as Deliciously Ella.
Mrs Mills wrote: ‘The last few
‘She has inspired us so much’
months have been some of the hardest of our lives, after Matt’s mum was suddenly diagnosed with brain cancer in May.
‘Her bravery, optimism, love and support for others during this process has inspired us both so much, and today, on her 70th birthday, we’re all pledging to try and do everything we can to make people’s lives with cancer better for longer.’
She added: ‘I’m sure so many of you have had to deal with this process too, and Matt and I will work to find new ways of supporting and enhancing people’s lives who have been affected.’
Baroness Jowell tweeted: ‘Thank you for so much love and support on my birthday. More people living longer better lives with cancer is my birthday pledge.’ Last night she issued a statement adding: ‘ I’m in treatment at the moment, but will share more soon, and look forward to finding ways to make better, longer lives for people with cancer.’
Baroness Jowell was one of Labour’s best-known faces during the Tony Blair era and was credited with playing a big part in London winning the 2012 Olympics.
The former social worker was elected to Parliament in 1992 as MP for Dulwich and West norwood. She rose swiftly through the Labour ranks, becoming public health minister. She was made Dame Tessa in the 2012 Birthday Honours for political and charitable services and was later made a peer.
Every year, 11,000 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour, according to the Brain Tumour Charity – the equivalent to 30 a day.
Chief executive Sarah Lindsell said: ‘Our hearts go out to Tessa Jowell and her family after being diagnosed with a high grade brain tumour. and we applaud her pledge on her 70th birthday to help people whose lives are turned upside down by this devastating disease.’