Theo Burrell, a beloved expert from the BBC's Antiques Roadshow, has courageously shared a graphic image of her surgery scar with her followers. This powerful update comes as she continues her battle against an aggressive brain tumour.
A Brave Health Update and a Powerful Image
Taking to Instagram on the 20th of January 2026, Burrell posted a photo of her healing scar, calling it her "war wound." She explained that her stitches had been removed and that the site was healing well. This visual disclosure is part of her ongoing mission to raise awareness about glioblastoma, the aggressive grade four brain cancer she was diagnosed with in 2022.
The decorative arts specialist, who joined the popular BBC programme in 2018, revealed that just before Christmas she received difficult news. Her tumour had grown by 3cm, necessitating a second major operation, which took place earlier this month.
Navigating Post-Surgery Challenges
While Burrell reported that the surgery itself went well and she was recovering at home, it led to some unexpected health complications. In a previous update, she shared that her eyesight had been significantly affected by the procedure. Despite this setback, she maintained a positive outlook, expressing total trust in her surgeon, who also performed her initial operation 3.5 years ago.
In her latest post, Burrell struck an uplifting tone, focusing on small victories. She wrote that she would be "strutting into the hospital with a head of properly washed hair" for a meeting with her oncology team to discuss the next phase of her treatment plan.
A Message of Hope for Others
Theo Burrell's journey has now spanned over four years since her first symptoms appeared in December 2021. Marking 43 months since her official diagnosis, she took a moment to address others affected by brain cancer. "Hope can be thin on the ground in this experience," she acknowledged, before adding, "but if my story gives you even 5 seconds of hope then grab it with both hands."
Her candid update prompted an outpouring of support from friends and followers online. Messages praised her bravery for sharing the raw image and offered wishes for continued healing and strength during her recovery.
