After news presenter Edwina Bartholomew courageously revealed her cancer diagnosis during an emotional segment on Sunrise, many fans were left wondering when they would see the beloved star return to their screens.
Fortunately, supporters didn’t have to wait too long after the 41-year-old surprised viewers with a return to the Sunrise news desk ahead of the Sydney Swans v Brisbane Lions AFL grand final on Friday, September 27.
“I’m so well rested, I have had a huge gigantic warm embrace from Sunrise viewers and I didn’t want to miss today,” Bartholomew said upon her return.
“I love today (the AFL grand final), as we all do. I wanted to be back in time, not just for the mini jaffles, but to see you all and be here for the wonderful week in Melbourne.”
Audiences were thrilled by Bartholomew’s return, with many taking to social media to welcome her back and send their best wishes.
“Lovely to see your face again. Continue to take care of you,” one wrote.
“What a welcome sight this morning.”
“We miss you Edwina. Hope you’re recovering,” commented another.
“What a ray of sunshine you are!!! So good to see you on our screens again.”
Bartholomew fought through tears when she revealed to viewers that she had been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia during the Friday, September 6 episode of Sunrise,
“Now, a personal story to finish the bulletin,” she began.
“I have been diagnosed with cancer. That’s a shock to say, and hard to say. It is a really good kind. It is called chronic myeloid leukaemia. It can be treated with a daily tablet. If I can take care of myself I will be completely fine.”
Bartholomew was diagnosed in July but chose to wait to reveal her health news.
“Firstly, because everyone at home has been here for all the wonderful times, for the engagements, and the weddings and the babies, for all of us,” she explained.
“It felt right to share this with you too. Many of you have been in similar situations or much, much worse and come out the other side stronger… And more resilient. That’s exactly what I plan to do.
“Secondly, the reason I’m telling you is because after I turned 40 I made the decision to prioritise my health. I got a skin check after Nat had her scare. I had a mammogram after I had a few lumps – that came back all clear. I even had an eye check – that’s fine.
“But my doctor sent me to get routine blood tests at the same time. One of those tests came back with levels out of whack.”
Despite her diagnosis, Bartholomew assured viewers at home that she feels “lucky” due to the available treatment options and remains “very positive” about her prognosis.