Following the tragic passing of Tom Parker on Wednesday, The Wanted singer's emotional recollection of his cancer diagnosis has become even more poignant.
The Bolton-born singer, 33, sadly lost his battle against terminal brain cancer, having told fans in October 2020 he had an inoperable glioblastoma tumour.
Upon receiving the devastating news, the dad-of-two used his platform to raise awareness of the illness, and helped raised thousands of pounds needed to fund vital research into potential treatment and cures for the terminal condition.
Speaking on Stand Up To Cancer in October last year, the brave star broke down in tears, as he recalled the heartbreaking moment doctors told him he had an inoperable brain tumour.
After reflecting on his impressive music career, and his happy life with wife Kelsey and their two "amazing kids", Tom fought back the tears as he and Kelsey explained how he suffered a seizure during a family trip to Norfolk.
"I was on my own in hospital because of Covid restrictions. So, there was literally nobody else there with me - I was alone," he remembered when discussing his initial hospitalisation.
"The doctors whipped around the curtain around my bed and told me I have a brain tumour, and I was like ‘No, you’ve got it wrong. It must be a mistake. I’m only 32,"
"I really thought they had made a mistake," the late star added, breaking down in tears during his interview for the Channel 4 show.
He continued: "When you get told news like that, I just remember just shutting down. I didn't want to acknowledge anything to do with brain tumours, cancer. I just couldn't think about anything.
"All I remember is just thinking 'Am I going to die?'"
Tom went on to explain his condition to viewers and praise his wife Kelsey - calling the mum-of-two his "rock" and crediting her for "taking the world on her shoulders".
Since Kelsey announced the heartbreaking news that Tom had died on Wednesday, cancer charities have praised the late star for raising awareness and funding for brain cancer before his untimely death
"Tom was a fantastic spokesperson, and he chose to bring attention to the lack of funding," National Brain Appeal boss Theresa Dauncey told BBC Breakfast.
"He was amazing, honest and positive."
Tom and Kelsey tied the knot in 2018, after meeting in a nightclub in 2009, and they welcomed daughter Aurelia into the world in 2019.
The happy couple found out in May 2020 they were expecting their second child together, with little Bodhi born later that year.
Breaking the tragic news Tom had died on Wednesday, Kelsey wrote on Instagram : "Tom was the centre of our world. We can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence."
"We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom's light continues to shine for his beautiful children."
The heartbroken widow added: "Thank you to everyone who has supported in his care throughout, he fought until the very end. I'm forever proud of you."
