TV Doc Punam Krishan's Brave Battle: Dancing Through Breast Cancer

Dr Punam Krishan, a well-known TV doctor and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, has revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer five months ago and has now completed her treatment. Punam, who is 42 and originally from Glasgow, is a regular doctor on BBC's Morning Live and appeared on Strictly in 2024. She shared her story on social media, posting a photo of herself in a hospital bed and describing the shock and fear she felt when she received her diagnosis. She wrote, 'I've spent almost two decades as a doctor, supporting patients and families through difficult diagnoses. And yet, nothing prepares you for being on the receiving end yourself. ' Punam explained that she had to take things one day at a time and praised the NHS team who cared for her, saying they were extraordinary. She admitted that the experience was much harder than she ever imagined and kept her illness private during treatment to protect her energy and her children. Her husband, Dr Sandesh Gulhane, is an MSP and the Scottish Conservative health spokesman, and he, along with her family and close friends, supported her throughout her treatment.

Punam said she is now healing and feels grateful, relieved, and still shaken. She decided to share her story because keeping it quiet was difficult and she believes in honesty. She also wanted to remind people that life is not always as perfect as it seems from the outside. She pointed out that cancer does not discriminate, as she had no family history and was healthy before her diagnosis. Her biggest lesson from this experience is that early detection saves lives, and she credits her survival to listening to her instincts and acting quickly when she noticed something unusual. She encourages everyone to know their bodies, trust themselves, and seek medical help early if something feels wrong.

Punam's experience has changed her perspective on life, making her realize that health is more important than work, possessions, or perfection. She has written books about health and first aid for children and started appearing on BBC Radio Scotland in 2020 and BBC One's Morning Live the following year. On Strictly Come Dancing, she danced with Gorka Marquez, and they were the fifth pair to be voted off. Gorka sent her supportive messages, saying he knows she will get through this. Fellow Strictly dancer Amy Dowden, who has also undergone breast cancer treatment, sent her love and encouragement. The NHS lists breast cancer symptoms as a lump or swelling in the breast, chest, or armpit, changes in the skin such as dimpling or redness, changes in the size or shape of the breasts, nipple discharge, changes in the nipple, or pain that does not go away. Not all lumps mean cancer, but it is important to get checked by a doctor if you notice any changes. Punam's story is a powerful reminder to pay attention to your health and act early if something feels wrong.