Brian Nolan has been diagnosed with cancer just months after his sister Linda Nolan passed away from the disease in January this year
Coleen Nolan's brother Brian Nolan courageously discussed his cancer battle in his first TV interview since receiving the disheartening diagnosis.
Brian, aged 70, was diagnosed with prostate cancer mere months following the tragic loss of his sister Linda Nolan to pneumonia this January, two decades post her initial breast cancer diagnosis.
On Monday (March 24), in a moving segment on ITV's renowned daytime programme Loose Women, he passionately implored viewers to undergo cancer screening, underscoring its potential to "save your life".
During the programme, Brian declared: "The word cancer is no longer a death sentence, most cancers are treated but the key is please please please have your PSA once a year and we're going to start a campaign."
He highlighted a significant issue stating, "The problem really is there is no notification for men, there are no symptoms really. What we are suggesting is getting notifications when it is time for your test and one test a year will do it.", reports Belfast Live.
Brian emphasised the importance of early detection, saying: "If there is any issues in the PSA, they can treat it and there is ten stages to go so what you're going is potentially saving your life."
Furthermore, Brian recounted the harrowing moment he learned of his cancer diagnosis, which came after encountering bladder issues that led to two blood tests confirming his condition.
Following his biopsy, he recounted: "'I've got cancer'. The doctor confirmed 'yes you've got cancer.' It's just something in your life you really don't want to hear. I was completely speechless. My wife was with me, she broke down a little bit."
Coleen subsequently commended her brother for the way he coped with sister Linda's passing while grappling with his own diagnosis. He disclosed a desire to keep his health struggles private from the family during Linda's funeral arrangements.
The Nolan family has seen its share of sorrow due to cancer. They've lost Bernie to breast cancer in 2003, and like Linda, both Bernie and Coleen have had their battles with the disease.
In 2023, Coleen made public her skin cancer diagnosis and is currently receiving treatment for carcinoma on her shoulder and pre-melanoma on her face.
Anne, too, faced breast cancer in 2000, seeing it recur in 2020, but has recently shared the jubilant news of being cancer-free.
Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 12.30pm
