After the Olympic champion disclosed that his cancer is terminal and that he has between two and four years to live, there has been an outpouring of support for Sir Chris Hoy.
His most recent Instagram post, in which he stated that he was “overwhelmed by all the love,” received responses from numerous celebrities from the entertainment and sports industries.
Sir Mark Cavendish, a fellow cycling legend, referred to him as a “hero of a human being,” and Ally McCoist, a former Scotland footballer and pundit, posted: You, my friend, are an absolute superstar in every way imaginable. Love and strength from every one of us.”
Dame Sarah Storey and Olympic and Paralympic champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, as well as television personalities Paddy McGuinness and Jack Whitehall, sent support messages.
“Chris Hoy is one of the greatest individuals to ever represent our nation. On X, British rowing great Sir Matthew Pinsent posted, “Thoughts with him, Sarra, and his immediate family.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also expressed his gratitude, writing, Such miserable news. Chris is an English brandishing legend.
“It is inspiring to face his diagnosis with such optimism. He and his family are supported by the entire nation.”
That sentiment was echoed by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who stated to Sky News’ Trevor Phillips that he was “in awe” of Sir Chris’ “optimism and positivity” in such a difficult circumstance.
In February, Sir Chris said that he was being treated for cancer. Today, however, he told The Sunday Times that he has terminal prostate cancer, something he has known for more than a year.
The six-time Olympic gold medalist claimed that the disease was now incurable and had spread to his bones, causing tumors in his shoulder, pelvis, hip, spine, and rib.
“As unnatural as it feels, this is nature. He explained to the newspaper, “You know, we were all born and died, and this is just part of the process.”
“You remind yourself, aren’t I lucky that I can take a medicine that will keep this from happening for as long as possible?”
Sir Chris stated that a tumor was initially discovered in his shoulder last year, and a subsequent scan revealed that his prostate was the primary site of the cancer.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting men, and most cases occur in older adults over the age of 50. If treated early, some conditions can be cured.
The Scot, 48, is married and has two children, Sarra, who is seven and ten, as well as significant health issues.
She was diagnosed with “very active and aggressive” multiple sclerosis, according to Sir Chris, about a month after he learned about his stage-four cancer.
The former Olympian is currently attending the world track cycling championships alongside the broadcaster. She was a part of the BBC’s Paris 2024 coverage in the summer.
He wrote, accompanied by a picture of the team, ” I just wanted to reassure you that I’m feeling fit, strong, and positive, and that I’m overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me. You might see articles about my health in the news this weekend. Onwards!”
Sir Chris is a 11-time title holder with six Olympic gold decorations and one silver at three distinct games – Athens, Beijing and London in 2012.
Since his retirement in 2013, he has competed in motorsport events, including the renowned Le Mans 24 race in 2016. He has also been a regular TV pundit.