First Dates star Merlin Griffiths reveals ‘life-changing consequences’ of cancer battle in new health update
MERLIN Griffiths has revealed the 'life-changing consequences' he's facing following his cancer battle.
The beloved First Dates barman has shared a new health update with his fan base.
Merlin, 48, is living with bowel cancer and has undergone chemotherapy and two operations to remove his tumour.
Last year he delighted fans when he revealed doctors had given him the "all clear for now".
But now the dad-of-one has revealed the 'consequences' of living with the disease.
He appeared on BBC Breakfast as First Dates marks 10 years on air with a brand new and refreshed series on Channel 4.
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Presenter Jon Kay asked Merlin about his current health, with the pub owner delivering mostly positive news to fans.
He explained: "All good. Living with the fall out.
"But, you know, as anyone who has been through cancer and come out the other side knows, there are always consequences to something like this."
Merlin continued: "It's life changing. I have a condition called Low Anterior Resection Syndrome now to deal with, but that's all right.
"We live with it, we move forward. The main thing is, one is live and able to smile and able to work at the bar in the restaurant."
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence describe the condition as "a collection of symptoms that people who have undergone a partial or total resection of the rectum might have".
It adds: "These symptoms include, for example, faecal incontinence or leakage, frequency or urgency of stools, loose stools, incomplete bowel movement, or tenesmus."
Since his diagnosis Merlin has been vocal about catching bowel cancer symptoms early and has supported various NHS campaigns.
