Comedian Janey Godley was met with overwhelming love and support in response to her announcement that she was receiving end-of-life care.
The 63-year-old cancelled her Why Is She Still Here? Tour earlier this month after contracting sepsis amid her battle with incurable ovarian cancer.
Doctors advised her to cancel performances, as her condition had progressed to a point where she was unable to cope with the demands of a busy tour schedule while undergoing treatment, reports Glasgow Live.
After her three-year fight with the disease, the Glasgow-born comic announced yesterday that she is now receiving palliative care and the tour was officially cancelled.
Janey shared a medical update on social media, saying the news was “devastating,” but that she was coming to terms with her prognosis, stating: “The chemo ran out of options, and I couldn’t take anymore of it. The cancer has spread, so it looks like this will be getting to near the end of it, and it’s really difficult to speak about this and say it to people.
“It is devastating news, to know that I’m facing end of life but we all come to an end some time. I don’t know how long I’ve got left before anybody asks, I’m not a tick tock, I just want you all to know that I appreciate all the love you’ve gave me.
“Cancer affects one in two people and it’s affected me.”
Following the news, the beloved comedian was met with overwhelming support on social media, including from former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Irish comedian Dara O’Briain.
Ms Sturgeon, who Janey portrayed in several of her lockdown videos, wrote: “Sending you so much love, my friend. You are an inspiration.”
Dara O’Briain said: “Ah Janey, this is so sad to hear. All my love to you and your family.”
Actor and Star Wars legend Mark Hamill shared: “Sending you much love & best wishes always, Janey. From you fan, Mark.”
Radio presenter James O’Brien said: “Wonderful, wonderful woman. Privilege to know her. As fearless as she is funny, which is really saying something.”
Friend and TV cook Nigella Lawson also showed support, writing: “Oh Janey, this is heartbreaking. Thank you for all you’ve given the world – and for being you.”
Fellow comedians Rufus Hound and Dom Joly were also amongst the many supporters.
Rufus wrote: “Well, right to the end funny, brave and a global example as to what to tell fascists. They’ll not make better, JG. Thanks for absolutely everything. Goodnight and good luck.”
Meanwhile, Dom said: “God bless you Janey – you are truly wonderful.”
Janey’s daughter, Ashley Storrie, who is also a comedian, released an emotional message on TikTok thanking fans for their support.
She said: “Hello friends. As you may have seen Mum has entered her end-of-life care. The cancer has spread and she is no longer responding to chemotherapy.
“It’s really sad. I’m going to keep living my life and I’m going to keep working because that’s what my mum’s asked me to do and that’s what I’m going to do.
“Because I want to show her before she leaves that I’m going to be okay because I know that’s the thing she’s worried about the most.
“I won’t be sitting a vigil by her bedside crying because she doesn’t want me to and I’m going to respect her wishes.
“I love my mum and every weird and uncomfortable and unusual facet of her and I’m going to respect her wishes in this time.
“I only have one favour to ask of you and that’s to have a bit of compassion and recognise that no everybody processes things the same as you do – I’ve got an autistic brain, but I’m very grateful for all your love and support so thank you.”
Janey’s illness tragically returned recently after she went into remission in 2022, announcing that a scan showed “no evidence of disease”.
However, later updates revealed that another scan had shown signs of the disease in her abdomen but added that she would continue with her tour in February and March 2023.
The Albert Halls had been due to host Godley’s show on Saturday, November 9. The venue this week said that tickets for the event will be automatically refunded “within a few days”.
They added: “If you have any issues or questions, please get in touch with our Box Office team.”
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