Davina McCall is recovering after brain tumour surgery. Her journey sheds light on rare brain tumours and the importance of health checks.
UK television presenter Davina McCall is currently recovering after undergoing surgery to remove a rare, benign brain tumour. Known for her roles in programmes such as Long Lost Family and Your Mum, My Dad, McCall revealed that the 14mm tumour, a colloid cyst, was discovered during a routine health scan offered after a menopause talk earlier this year.
McCall candidly shared her journey with her fans, explaining, “I thought I was in great health and would pass the scan with flying colours. Instead, they found a benign brain tumour called a colloid cyst, which is incredibly rare—only three in a million people are affected.”
Colloid cysts are fluid-filled growths located in the brain’s ventricular system, where they can obstruct the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). While benign, untreated growth may lead to complications such as headaches, dizziness, vision problems, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. According to experts, colloid cysts make up less than 2% of primary brain tumours, often discovered incidentally or during imaging for unrelated issues.
To address the issue, McCall underwent a craniotomy, a surgical procedure involving the temporary removal of a portion of the skull. The surgery was described as “textbook” by her medical team. Sharing her optimism with followers, McCall said, “It’s a big tumour, and it needed to come out before it could cause any further problems. I have complete faith in my surgeon and his team. Now it’s my job to focus on recovery.”
Post-surgery, McCall is reported to be making significant progress. Her partner, Michael Douglas, provided updates via social media, stating: “She’s out of ICU and making enormous leaps in recovery. We’re so grateful for all the love and support from everyone—it means the world.”
McCall is expected to spend about nine days in the hospital before returning home to continue her recovery. Douglas shared that McCall is “off-grid” for now to focus entirely on getting better. “She’s in great shape and excellent hands. The love and positivity coming her way is truly powerful, and we’re so thankful,” he said.
Despite being physically and emotionally exhausted, McCall has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and encouragement she’s received. She reassured fans that she will take the time needed to recover fully and hopes to read through the many kind messages sent her way.
By sharing her experience so openly, McCall has drawn attention to the importance of routine health checks and raised awareness about rare brain tumours like colloid cysts. Organisations like Brainstrust and The Brain Tumour Charity have praised her for shedding light on this little-known condition, which they believe will help others feel less isolated.
Will Jones, CEO of Brainstrust, commented: “Davina’s transparency and courage are invaluable to those living with similar diagnoses. Her story provides hope and a sense of community to many who may otherwise feel overlooked.”
Known as a vocal advocate for women’s health, McCall has contributed significantly to public discussions about issues such as menopause and contraception. Her 2022 book, Menopausing: The Positive Roadmap to Your Second Spring, aimed to dispel myths and stigma surrounding menopause.
In 2023, McCall received an MBE for her contributions to broadcasting and her advocacy efforts, cementing her place as a role model for health awareness and empowerment.
As McCall focuses on her recovery, she continues to inspire others with her strength, openness, and dedication to improving public understanding of rare health conditions.
For more information about brain tumour treatments and support, explore the services available at https://amethyst-radiotherapy.co.uk/.
Centres of Excellence for Stereotactic Radiosurgery treatment of complex Brain Tumours
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