Channel 4 First Dates star 'not the same as he was' after cancer diagnosis as show returns
Channel 4's First Dates favourite Merlin Griffiths has shared an update on how he is doing now following his devastating bowel cancer diagnosis.
First Dates star Merlin Griffiths received the all-clear from doctors just before summer kicked off last year, but sadly, his bowel cancer diagnosis was so "life-changing" that even now, he acknowledges he is "not the same as he was". The Channel 4 star took to Twitter, now known as X, this morning to explain: "It's important to raise awareness, that post cancer everything doesn't just magically go back to normal."
He continued earnestly in view of his more than 60,000 followers: "There are lifelong consequences and the journey leaves us ravaged in ways that cannot be seen obviously. Yes, I'm alright. No, I'm not the same as I was. #bowelcancer #LARS."
The big-hearted star also publicly reached out to Dancing on Ice 2024 star Adele Roberts, who has been through the same traumatic experience. The BBC Radio 1 presenter, who first found fame via Big Brother, replied to his moving message on Twitter to gush: "Thank you for everything you do to share your story and raise awareness Merlin. You’re amazing xx."
He replied: "Thanks Adele. Did you decide on your reversal yet? Drop me a DM and I'll give you my number if you want to chat it through." He was referring to a stoma reversal, which would mean that Adele would no longer need a colostomy bag and would be able to use the toilet normally again.
According to Healthline, two thirds of patients' reversals are successful after one to two years of having the bag fitted. Adele has been free from cancer for a year and a half, after originally being diagnosed with stage two cancer back in 2021.
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Meanwhile, Merlin also appeared on BBC Breakfast this week to relive his rollercoaster ride through life while battling the big C.
"As anyone who has been through with cancer and come out of the other side knows, there are always consequences to something like this that are life-changing," he lamented.
The 48-year-old added that he is still "living with the fallout" as, despite having no disease present right now, he has since been diagnosed with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome - a complication that can take place following rectal surgery.
The condition can cause incontinence and various other issues with bowel movements.
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However, Merlin has remained upbeat and optimistic about the future.
He says the main thing is that he is "alive" and still able to work in his bartending role.
His last CT scan confirmed that, for now, there is no evidence of disease, and doctors told him they hoped he feels "reassured" by the status.
First Dates made its return to Channel 4 yesterday at 10pm.