The passing of our patron, Sir Michael Parkinson CBE content
It is with great sadness that Yorkshire Cancer Research has learned about the death of the charity’s patron, Sir Michael Parkinson CBE.
Sir Michael, who was born in Cudworth, near Barnsley, became patron of Yorkshire Cancer Research in March 2016 following his experience with prostate cancer.
After being treated successfully, Sir Michael became passionate about supporting the charity’s aim to address inequalities in cancer diagnosis and treatment in Yorkshire.
At the time he said: “I’m very proud to be a Yorkshireman, and I was surprised and upset to learn that cancer outcomes in the county are not good as other parts of the UK. Having been diagnosed and treated for cancer myself, I understand how important it is to have access to the very best treatments and care.
“I believe that everyone should have an equal chance of living a long and healthy life, so I am delighted to support the work of Yorkshire Cancer Research and help them address these unacceptable inequalities.”
Sir Michael also helped inspire fundraising for the charity while raising awareness of cancer signs and symptoms and encouraging people with cancer across the region to support each other by sharing their experiences.
In June 2016, he paid a special return visit to South Yorkshire to support a fun run organised by Yorkshire Cancer Research. While attending the event at Canon Hall Farm near Barnsley, Sir Michael spoke to many participants and stopped for photographs.
He said: “I haven’t been back to Yorkshire for many years in this kind of intimate sense and it’s always nice to return and feel the friendliness and chat with people. I would like to thank all the people who made my trip up here so memorable.”
Sir Michael also spoke about the struggles he faced following his own cancer diagnosis to help promote the charity’s Let’s Talk about Cancer event, which took place at Magna Science Centre, Rotherham, in 2019.
Sir Michael said: “When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I was shocked. But the doctors were very positive, and I soon had a good treatment plan in place which put me at ease.
Quote from Sir Michael Parkinson
“However, I soon learned there is so much more to cancer than simply having access to the best treatment. The experience showed me how important it is that more support is provided to address the emotional, physical and practical needs of cancer patients and their loved ones.”
Sir Michael, the son of a miner, attended Barnsley Grammar School before beginning his career in the media as a reporter at the South Yorkshire Times.
He progressed to the Manchester Guardian, the Daily Express and later, television. He is best known for presenting his long-running talk show, Parkinson, on both the BBC and ITV.
As a young man, Sir Michael played cricket in the Yorkshire League with Geoffrey Boycott and Dickie Bird and had trials for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research said:
“We are extremely sad to learn that our patron, Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, has passed away. Sir Michael was a staunch supporter of equality and equity for people with cancer, no matter who they are or where they live. By speaking out about his own personal experience, he played an important role in both raising awareness of cancer and raising funds for vital research into the disease. We send out heartfelt condolences to his family at this extremely sad time.”