British TV presenter Davina McCall has opened up about her emotional journey following brain surgery, revealing the steps she took to prepare for the worst. The 57-year-old underwent an operation in November 2024 to remove a rare colloid cyst in her brain—a condition that affects only about three in a million people.
Preparing for the Worst: Letters to Her Children
Before her surgery, McCall took precautionary measures in case things didn’t go as planned. In a deeply personal revelation, she admitted to updating her will and writing farewell letters to her three children—Holly, Tilly, and Chester.
“I wanted to make sure they would be okay if something happened to me,” McCall shared. “It was heartbreaking, but it gave me peace of mind knowing they would have my words with them.”
Her candid admission underscores the gravity of her medical condition and the emotional toll it took on her and her family. While the tumor was benign, its location posed a serious health risk, including the potential for sudden death if left untreated (NHS).
The Road to Surgery: Symptoms & Diagnosis
For months leading up to her diagnosis, McCall had been experiencing unusual symptoms. Initially, she believed these were linked to menopause, but as her cognitive functions and physical health declined, she sought medical advice.
Doctors later diagnosed her with a colloid cyst, which can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid circulation and lead to life-threatening complications. According to medical experts, symptoms of this rare condition can include memory issues, headaches, nausea, and, in severe cases, sudden unconsciousness (Mayo Clinic).
Post-Surgery Reflections: ‘A Newfound Appreciation for Life’
McCall’s surgery was successful, but her recovery journey was both physically and emotionally demanding. She described waking up feeling an immediate difference in her cognitive abilities and energy levels, realizing that many of her previous health concerns were related to the cyst rather than menopause.
“Everything feels brighter now,” she said. “I have so much more love for life, for people, for nature—I’ve never felt this grateful before.”
The experience has shifted her perspective on life, making her more present and appreciative of the small things. She hopes to use her platform to encourage others to be proactive about their health and not dismiss symptoms that could indicate something serious.
Support System: Family, Friends, and a WhatsApp Group
Throughout her recovery, McCall has leaned on her support system, including her long-time partner, Michael Douglas, and her children. She also created a WhatsApp group with around 40 close friends, colleagues, and loved ones who supported her through the challenging period.
Their messages of encouragement, positivity, and humor played a crucial role in keeping her spirits high during the difficult weeks of post-operative recovery.
Encouraging Others to Take Action
As she regains her strength, McCall is using her experience to urge others to take their health seriously. She encourages individuals to listen to their bodies, seek medical advice when needed, and prioritize mental and physical well-being.
Her message resonates with many who may dismiss early signs of neurological conditions, attributing them to aging, stress, or other common factors. Medical professionals also emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for conditions like colloid cysts.
What’s Next for Davina McCall?
Despite the emotional and physical toll of her surgery, McCall is eager to return to her professional commitments. She has expressed a renewed passion for her work and an even greater dedication to making the most of life.
“I’m just so excited for everything,” she said. “I want to do more, live more, love more.”
As she moves forward, her story serves as a reminder of resilience, the power of support systems, and the importance of confronting health challenges head-on.
For those seeking more information about neurological health and brain tumor awareness, visit authoritative resources like the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) or the Brain Tumor Charity.
McCall’s journey from diagnosis to recovery has been one of immense personal growth and reflection. Her story is not only inspiring but also a testament to the strength of the human spirit when faced with adversity.
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A senior at Yale-NUS College with interests in developmental and labour economics, as well as creative non-fiction and poetry. Currently, I’m studying as an Economics major and an Arts and Humanities minor (focusing on Creative Writing) with heavy involvement in the Singaporean journalism scene and involved in research on economic history and educational policy. I’m working as an author for SKC News, Yale-NUS’ student publication, as a writer for Wingspan, Yale-NUS’ alumni magazine, and as a tutor for the NUS Libraries Writer’s Centre. | Linkedin