An 11-year-old girl who is blind and has a brain tumor said she had fulfilled her dream of presenting her own radio show. Betsy Griffin, from Chorleywood, Hertfordshire, diagnosed with the tumor at the age of two, took to the airwaves on Sunday, showcasing her passion for 1950s and '60s rock'n'roll and country music.
Earlier this year, Betsy won the BBC Three Counties Radio (3CR) Make a Difference bravery award for her YouTube channel, Betsy's Positive Videos, which aims to spread positivity. Despite her struggles with optic nerve glioma, which has affected her sight, her father Stuart Griffin confirmed her condition is stable after multiple surgeries and continuous treatment.
Betsy's love for 1950s rock'n'roll has long been central to her identity. Earlier this year, she shared her aspirations with BBC 3CR presenter Justin Dealey, expressing her desire to become a radio presenter. When the opportunity arose, she described it as “an absolute privilege.” Her show opened with enthusiasm: "Hi everybody, it is me, Betsy Griffin. I'm going to start with an absolute belter, here's Roly Poly by Willie Nelson. Hit it!" It was clear from the outset this was not just any radio show.
During her 30-minute broadcast, Betsy played timeless tracks by legendary artists such as Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, and Bill Haley & His Comets, interweaving personal anecdotes and fun facts about the songs and their singers, which made the show even more engaging. After spinning The Big Bopper's Chantilly Lace, she fondly recalled how her cousin had sung it to her following one of her surgeries, lifting her spirits at a challenging time.
Reflecting on her experience, Betsy said, "It was kind of like second nature. I've dreamed of this... but honestly, you've made a girl's dream come true.” Her father, who has cherished her passion for music, humorously noted, “Well, it could be worse. Most 11-year-olds are listening to pop music so I guess I've dodged a bullet in this respect.” Betsy chimed in with her playful spirit, adding, “Yes, it could be AC/DC.”
Now, having realized one of her biggest dreams, Betsy has her eye set on meeting her idol, Willie Nelson, stating it would be her perfect dream come true. Throughout her battle with health challenges, it is her love for music and the support from her family and community, including the recognition from the BBC for her inspiring efforts on YouTube, solidifying her role as not just a survivor but as someone striving to make the most out of her circumstances.
Betsy's remarkable story captures the essence of courage, passion, and resilience, proving once again the transformative power of following one's dreams, no matter the obstacles. Her radio debut serves as inspiration for many, showing how even the toughest challenges can be overcome with positivity and determination.
