“I’m Still Pushing Forward, One Step at a Time”: The TV Presenter’s Candid Confession on Her Latest Health Scare and Hope for More Moments with Loved Ones

 Julia Bradbury, the 55-year-old Countryfile star whose infectious enthusiasm for Britain’s countryside has charmed audiences for over two decades, has shared a deeply personal health update that has left fans heartbroken yet inspired by her unyielding spirit. In a candid appearance on Wednesday’s The One Show, Julia revealed that doctors discovered a cyst in her brain during a routine full-body MRI scan—a shocking finding just four years after she bravely battled breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy. “They discovered a cyst in my brain, which is nothing to worry about but it is there,” she said matter-of-factly, her voice steady despite the weight of the words. The news, while not immediately threatening, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing vigilance required after her 2021 diagnosis, and Julia admits it’s shaken her—but not broken her resolve. “I’m still pushing forward, one step at a time,” she added, eyes glistening. “I just want a little more time with the people I love.”

Julia’s proactive approach to health stemmed directly from her breast cancer journey, which she documented in the poignant BBC film Julia Bradbury: Breast Cancer and Me. Diagnosed in September 2021 with a 6cm grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma, the Irish-born presenter underwent a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, emerging stronger but forever changed. “My cancer diagnosis was the moment for me when I started looking at my health more,” she explained on The One Show, alongside hosts Alex Jones and Vernon Kay. Determined to “lead a long happy life after my cancer scare,” Julia invested in extensive preventative checks: 45 vials of blood for comprehensive testing, stool samples for gut health, and a full-body MRI to scan for recurrence. The good news? No spread from her breast cancer. But the scan uncovered the unexpected brain cyst, located centrally near her pineal gland.

Shaken but supported, Julia reached out to longtime friend Davina McCall, who underwent successful brain surgery in November 2024 to remove her own colloidal cyst. Davina connected her with renowned neurosurgeon Kevin O’Neill, who reviewed the images and reassured her it’s benign. “My neurosurgeon Kevin O’Neill, who is Davina’s neurosurgeon, is not concerned,” Julia shared. “I will be rechecking in six months’ time to check there are no signs of growth, that it isn’t taking up any valuable real estate in my brain.” The cyst, while stable, has prompted Julia to double down on brain health: prioritizing sleep, age-appropriate exercise, and a balanced diet to nurture her “precious organ.”

The revelation has struck a chord with fans and fellow survivors. Social media lit up with #JuliaStrong, one viewer posting: “From trails to treatments—you’re our inspiration. More time with those you love, coming right up.” Davina reposted the clip: “Proud of you, Jules—together we’re unstoppable.” Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield added their love, with Phillip writing, “The sofa’s waiting when you’re ready, warrior.”

Julia, married to sound engineer Gerard Cunningham since 2007, credits her husband and three children—son Zephyrus, 13, and twins Xanthe and Zena, 10—for her drive. “They keep me going—one step at a time,” she said, echoing her mantra. Her upcoming book Hack Yourself Healthy (September 2025) will detail her blueprint for longevity, from DNA testing to gut checks, born from this dual fight.

At 55, Julia Bradbury isn’t defined by diagnoses—she’s a beacon of hope. “I’m grateful for every day here on planet Earth,” she affirmed. As she navigates scans and side effects, her message resonates: vulnerability breeds strength. Britain’s countryside queen isn’t slowing down; she’s charting new paths, one mindful step forward.