Antiques Roadshow specialist Theo Burrell has delivered a sombre health update to her supporters, disclosing that her brain tumour has returned aggressively and requires further surgery.
A devastating setback in her health battle
The 38-year-old decorative arts expert, who joined the BBC programme in 2018, was originally diagnosed with an aggressive grade four glioblastoma in 2022. This fast-growing cancer begins in the brain or spinal cord. In a recent update, Burrell shared that a scan just before Christmas revealed a 3cm regrowth at the original tumour site, a development she described as a "big blow".
She is now preparing for her second major operation, with plans for follow-up radiotherapy and chemotherapy. While acknowledging the sobering reality that her treatment options are diminishing, the mother-of-one stated she has had time to process the news and is "ready to get on with the next stages" of her fight.
Finding joy amidst the challenge
In an Instagram post featuring a festive photo with her young son, Jonah, Burrell wrote about her immediate plans. "The start of a new year, and for me it's back to the operating theatre as surgery no. 2 calls," she shared. She emphasised that Christmas was a "relaxed and happy time" spent with her family, building Lego and enjoying walks.
Looking ahead, she added that following her hospital stay, the family will celebrate her partner's 40th birthday. Throughout her ongoing ordeal, Burrell has remained open with followers about her experiences, including a visual seizure in September 2025 that left her bedridden for days.
Celebrating precious milestones
Theo Burrell has consistently highlighted the personal victories along her difficult journey. In a poignant post last autumn, she marked the immense milestone of seeing her son, Jonah, start primary school. Diagnosed when Jonah was just 19 months old, Burrell had feared she might not witness this key moment.
"I definitely did not think that I would get to see him start school and I've cried many times at the thought that I would miss this occasion," she wrote at the time. "But here I am! And I'm extremely grateful." Her message extended sympathy to other parents and guardians who are not present for such events, assuring them they are not forgotten.
As she braces for another round of intensive treatment, Burrell concluded her latest update by sending her best wishes to everyone for the year ahead.
