The I’m A Celeb star previously survived two brain tumours
Martin Kemp for I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Martin Kemp has shared the enduring effects of his battle with two brain tumours, discovered when he was in his 30s. In a distressing medical examination in 1997, an MRI scan unveiled two significant brain tumours.
The larger one was surgically removed, and the second was eradicated using advanced radiotherapy. Despite the success of these procedures, Martin, 64, continues to suffer from ongoing side effects, including epilepsy. In his podcast ‘FFS! My Dad Is Martin Kemp’, which he co-hosts with his son Roman, Martin spoke openly about another health challenge he faces.
Before explaining that his dyslexia affects more than just his ability to read, he said: “I am completely dyslexic. I struggle to read, terribly.
“But my dyslexia, because it came from a physical thing that happened in my brain, wasn’t just about what I can read and what I can’t read. It is about me finding my way as well.”
The dyslexia has become so severe that even for simple tasks such as locating nearby shops, Martin relies heavily on technology, reports Wales Online.
The I’m A Celebrity star said: “I have dyslexia when it comes to me thinking about what street is in front of another street. That all goes back to the brain injury that I had; I can’t help it – that maps app is a saviour to me.”
In the heartfelt episode, Martin opened up about his health battles, admitting to listeners his fear that he might have just “10 years” remaining. He disclosed the two years of dread he endured, fearing each day could be his final one, though he has since come to appreciate every moment of his life.
Roman explained how their frank conversations led supporters to voice their concerns about his father’s wellbeing, with numerous people searching online for information.
He noted a marked rise in queries, including ‘Is Martin Kemp ill?’ and ‘Is Martin Kemp still alive?’, with Martin jokingly blaming the podcast for sparking greater curiosity about his condition.
He said: “Why would I be ill? A lot of people Google me about the old brain tumour thing. This is what you’ve done – people are starting to think I’m dead!”
The NHS states that brain tumour symptoms vary depending on their position and can emerge gradually. The NHS encourages people not to ignore unusual or worsening headaches, recommending individuals seek GP advice for such symptoms, which, while not necessarily signalling a brain tumour, warrant medical assessment.
The NHS explains that brain tumour symptoms differ based on the precise area of the brain involved, though the typical warning signs comprise headaches, seizures, nausea and memory difficulties. It emphasises the necessity of consulting a GP if these symptoms deteriorate.
The website states: “Sometimes you may not have any symptoms to begin with, or they may develop very slowly over time.
“You may not have a brain tumour, but these types of symptoms should be checked.”
The health service also stated that approximately 17 out of every 100 people diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour will survive for five years or more.
