Antiques Roadshow expert Theo Burrell has provided fans with a significant health update, confirming she is recovering at home following a second major operation to remove a brain tumour. The decorative arts specialist revealed the procedure has temporarily affected her eyesight.
A Second Surgery and a Road to Recovery
Theo Burrell underwent her second surgery on Monday morning and is now resting at home. She reported feeling "pretty good" overall but shared that her vision had taken "a bit of a bashing" as a result of the operation. The mum of one expressed total trust in her surgeon, the same professional who operated on her 3.5 years ago.
This latest operation became necessary after a scan just before Christmas delivered what Burrell described as a "big blow." The scan revealed her tumour had regrown by 3cm at the original site. She was diagnosed with an aggressive grade four glioblastoma back in 2022, a fast-growing cancer that begins in the brain or spinal cord.
A Message of Hope for Others
In her Instagram update, Burrell took a moment to address others affected by brain cancer. She marked a poignant milestone, noting that last Wednesday represented 43 months since her initial glioblastoma diagnosis, with her first symptoms appearing in December 2021.
"Hope can be thin on the ground in this experience," she wrote, "but if my story gives you even 5 seconds of hope then grab it with both hands. I'm always thinking of those who have been affected by brain tumours and brain cancer and send my love and best wishes to you all."
Overwhelming Support and Future Treatment
The post was immediately flooded with supportive messages from fans and organisations. The charity Brain Tumour Research, for which Burrell is a patron, commented: "So glad you’re home and recovering! Sending you lots of love from everyone at Brain Tumour Research, your courage as our Patron continues to inspire us all!"
Fans praised her strength and selflessness, with one noting she was "always thinking of helping others" even while in the "thick of it." Others sent wishes for her eyesight to improve and for a straightforward recovery.
Looking ahead, Burrell has a clear treatment plan. Following this surgery, she will undergo follow-up radiotherapy and chemotherapy. She acknowledged the sobering reality that treatment options are becoming limited but stated that after time to digest the news, she is "ready to get on with the next stages."
