BBC presenter Rachael Bland's husband says she found comfort in thousands of messages from well-wishers as cancer battle podcast tops charts

Newsreader's cancer battle podcast has topped the charts after she revealed she has only days left to live
BBC
Katy Clifton5 September 2018

BBC newsreader Rachael Bland's husband has said she was comforted by countless supportive messages from well-wishers in the hours before her death.

The "heroic" presenter died on Wednesday after posting an emotional message to fans on Monday, the 40-year-old said she's "only got days" to live after being diagnosed with incurable breast cancer.

Two days after sharing the heartbreaking news, the presenter's cancer battle podcast has topped the charts, which husband Steve said she was "very happy about".

Posting on Twitter on Wednesday, Steve Bland wrote: "We did it. #YouMeBigC is #1 and Rachael Hodges [Bland] is very happy about it.

"While we're at it, I'm doing my best to read as many of your messages to her as I can.

"Can't tell us how much comfort they're bringing us all. Thank you."

In heartbreaking post just hours later, he announced news of her death.

He said: "Our beautiful, courageous Rachael died peacefully this morning surrounded by her close family. We are crushed but she would want me to thank everyone who took an interest in her story or sent messages of support. You’ll never know how much they meant to her. Steve and Freddie xxx"

The 40-year-old presenter quoted Frank Sinatra as she said on Twitter on Monday: “In the words of the legendary Frank S – I’m afraid the time has come my friends.

"And suddenly. I’m told I’ve only got days. It’s very surreal. Thank you so much for all the support I’ve received.

"Debs and lozz will continue with the #youmebigc podcast. Au revoir my friends.”

Hundreds of people offered words of support to the mother-of-one, with people praising her bravery in dealing with the diagnosis.

Replying to the presenter's emotional message, broadcaster Fiona Phillips wrote: "Your bravery defies words Rachael. Such a special human-being and such a mighty opponent of the dreaded Big C."

BBC Sport reporter Juliette Ferrington wrote: "Oh my goodness Rachael, sending you a bomb of love, strength and peace.

“In absolute awe of your courage, determination and willingness to fight every single day.”

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