Gay Byrne has given fans an update on how he is coping since starting treatment for prostate cancer. The veteran broadcaster was diagnosed with the disease late last year, and is taking time out from work to focus on his health.
Gay has had both of his hips replaced as part of the treatment plan put in place by doctors, and is currently taking 13 tablets a day, which have brought with them unwanted side effects such as mood swings.
Speaking to the Irish Sun the 82-year-old revealed that he’s not feeling good at the moment, but is doing everything he can.
“Not good, but I am doing what I’m told and maintaining the treatment. It’s the standard treatment: you are taking an awful lot of chemicals into your body in terms of pills. I’ve gone from someone who never took a tablet to someone taking 12 to 13 tablets a day.
“The chemicals do all sorts of things to your body. You are up and down, moody and grumpy. They play havoc with your moods and wellbeing. You turn from good-humoured to bad-humoured but that’s just the way it is. I am coping at the moment and what happens, happens,” he said.
The RTE great thanked his colleagues for their support and kindness during this tough time, particularly Joe Duffy and Ryan Tubridy. Gay also revealed that he has no plans to return to the airwaves, and is simply taking things day by day.
“Everyone has been so kind. Ryan and Joe call in regularly. They call in on an informal basis, we see each other regularly.
“I have no plans to go back on air, I will get about through today and then I will face tomorrow when it starts,” he said.
