Katherine Ryan, the acclaimed comedian, has opened up about her battle with melanoma for a second time, sharing her diagnosis in the latest episode of her podcast, Telling Everybody Everything. The 41-year-old star revealed that, after feeling uneasy about a mole on her arm, she sought medical advice but was met with misunderstanding and misdiagnosis from healthcare professionals.
Ryan first faced the disease at the age of 21 when she was diagnosed with stage 2 melanoma in her leg. Recalling her current concern over her mole, Katherine explained: "I know you should never google things but I’m actually really worried. Normally I’m that positive person. I think it’s really easy to take a diagnosis of ‘you’re healthy‘ and walk away." Yet, something was troubling her about the mole, which began to change in appearance.
Realizing the potential danger of skin cancer, she sought removal of the mole but faced skepticism from a doctor who initially reassured her that it was harmless. Katherine recounted that when she showed him the mole, he said, "it’s not melanoma, it’s totally fine, I will do a shave and send it away for testing." This was particularly concerning, as Ryan has extensive knowledge about melanoma due to her past experience.
"Even that didn’t look traditionally like melanoma to me," she later explained about her first cancer diagnosis. "It was flat, not that big but it was melanoma. It is a deadly form of skin cancer and it does spread quickly." Her instincts proved true when the test results returned showing the mole was indeed melanoma, commanding urgent follow-up treatment.
Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude for having been her own advocate, emphasizing how much more difficult it could have been if she hadn't pushed for further examination. "It just feels crazy to me, like what could have happened if I hadn't been my own advocate," she stated, adding, "I will continue to be my own advocate. If I hadn't pushed, if I had taken that good answer the first time and walked away, then I would have had melanoma just growing and spreading in my arm and God knows how far that would have gone."
Katherine also shared the financial burden of navigating healthcare, having paid £1,000 at a private clinic in South Kensington for the mole removal. She additionally spent £300 for a brief consultation with another doctor that failed to provide the right diagnosis. "The only reason that they agreed to remove it was because I... paid them a grand," she recounted, questioning the efficiency of the NHS in handling cases like her own. This highlights a growing concern among individuals relying on private healthcare systems for urgent medical interventions.
For Katherine, this diagnosis comes alongside her continuous struggle with lupus, an autoimmune condition she has battled since 2007. "I had really low white blood cells, but no one seemed particularly alarmed about that..." she recalled, discussing her long journey to a correct diagnosis. This struggle has significantly impacted her health and heightened her awareness of her body, urging her to advocate passionately for herself in various healthcare situations.
As she embraces this new chapter of vigilance, Katherine expresses her dedication to continue caring for her skin and routinely assessing any changes. "I obviously have a genetic predisposition, I am someone with type one, Celtic skin, I have over 100 moles," she said, expressing concern over future evaluations.
Those listening to Katherine’s story are reminded of the importance of self-awareness and self-advocacy in health—especially when faced with conditions as serious as cancer. She serves as an example for many, illustrating how crucial it is to trust one’s instincts and persist in pursuit of the information needed to protect one's health.
The comedian has certainly faced health hurdles throughout her career, but her willingness to share these experiences may inspire her audience to take their health issues seriously. As she bravely battles melanoma for the second time, Katherine Ryan continues to balance her family life and career as a stand-up comedian, providing laughter while navigating through her own challenges.
Ryan is a prominent voice in the comedy scene, well-known for her appearances on shows such as QI and Have I Got News For You. Her candidness about her health will likely resonate with many listeners, offering validation to those confronting similar struggles.
Fans can empathize with her journey of perseverance and hope, as she combines her comedic talent with a deeply serious fight against cancer. Katherine’s experience, although challenging, presents a powerful narrative about the importance of staying proactive regarding one’s health and being a strong advocate for oneself in the face of adversity.
As Katherine continues her stand-up tour, her openness about her health struggles adds another layer to her performances, revealing her resilience and the comedic way she addresses serious subjects.
