Newcastle Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge has revealed he has been diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system.
In a detailed statement, Dr Kerridge said he is taking medical leave until mid-January to focus on undergoing chemotherapy and recovery.
“I recently announced that due to a serious medical condition, I was taking leave from the Lord Mayor’s position until the middle of January,” Dr Kerridge said. “At that time, I did not wish to give more details, but I am now ready to share that I have been diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.”
Dr Kerridge explained the diagnosis came after a routine scan of his lower back in late September revealed an abnormality, leading to further tests. He began his first round of chemotherapy on October 15.
“The condition is treatable and potentially curable,” he said. “I am being treated by Newcastle’s haematology team and have complete confidence in their care.”
He said that while he initially hoped to continue in his role, fatigue and other side effects from both the cancer and treatment forced him to take medical leave on October 24.
“I had presumed my fatigue and night sweats were due to stress and workload, but hindsight is a great diagnostic tool,” he said.
Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe has assumed mayoral duties and will receive the full Lord Mayor’s salary while Dr Kerridge is on leave.
“This is a challenging time for me and my family,” Dr Kerridge said. “But I’m looking forward and hoping for the best. I’m deeply grateful for the excellent medical care in Newcastle and for the many kind messages of support I’ve received.”