Emotional Discussions on Terminal Illness on ‘This Morning’ Stir Viewer Response

On a poignant episode of ‘This Morning,’ aired on Wednesday, viewers experienced an emotional rollercoaster as discussions centered around terminal illnesses. Celebrity hairdresser Trevor Sorbie‘s revelation of his own terminal cancer diagnosis struck a chord, prompting viewers to reach out to Deidre Sanders, the show’s agony aunt, with their personal stories.

One of the most touching segments occurred when a caller, sharing his own diagnosis, sought advice during a conversation with hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard. He revealed, “I’ve been poorly for a couple of years and I was told on Monday that I’ve probably got four to six months.” The caller, who had not yet informed his family or friends, asked Deidre for guidance on how to break the news.

Upon learning that the caller was in his 40s, Deidre responded, “It’s just doubly tragic when someone as young as you are.” She advised him to communicate the news to his loved ones as soon as possible, acknowledging the challenge, “I know it’s tough trying to find those words, it’s partly your fear of what’s coming, makes it very hard to find the words which is completely understandable.” Deidre offered further support by agreeing to talk with him privately after the call.

Viewers also heard from a woman seeking assistance with her father’s terminal condition. Overwhelmed by emotion, she explained her wish to make lasting memories with her parents, especially for her young daughter, their only granddaughter. Deidre reassured the woman of her support off the air, given the seriousness of her concerns.

The emotional atmosphere intensified when the final caller shared her distress. She needed Ben Shephard to articulate her feelings about her friend being diagnosed with the same cancer that claimed her father’s life. “Sharon recently found out that her friend of over 45 years has the same pancreatic cancer that killed her father,” Ben relayed her story.

The broadcast left viewers deeply moved, with many expressing their reactions online. Comments reflected the somber mood, with one viewer noting, “This is a really hard watch today,” while another remarked, “This phone-in is so sad.” The stories evoked powerful emotions, as one viewer described pouring a cup of tea and finding the segment “heartbreaking.”