Born: 1978 (Creigiau, Cardiff)
Died: 2018
Biography:
Rachael Rebecca Bland (née Hodges; 21 January 1978 – 5 September 2018) was a British journalist and presenter from Cardiff, Wales. She made significant contributions to broadcasting and cancer awareness during her career.
Born in Creigiau, Cardiff, Bland began her broadcasting journey at BBC Wiltshire, where she presented news bulletins. She later joined BBC Radio 5 Live, initially delivering news on Richard Bacon’s show. Bland’s no-nonsense approach and candid style made her a popular figure on the station’s program, The Special Half Hour Club.
Bland’s career expanded beyond radio as she ventured into sports presenting on television. Alongside this role, she also served as a relief and weekend presenter on the BBC News Channel and BBC World News. In 2011, when BBC Radio 5 Live relocated to MediaCityUK in Salford Quays, Bland became a newsreader and relief presenter on BBC North West Tonight.
Beyond her professional achievements, Bland’s personal life was equally fulfilling. In September 2013, she tied the knot with BBC Radio 5 Live producer Steve Bland. Together, they welcomed their son, Freddie, into the world. In addition to her family, Bland had a passion for sports and participated in triathlons, including the 2010 London Triathlon, where she raised funds for Breast Cancer Care. She also completed the London Marathon multiple times.
Sadly, Bland’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in November 2016. Despite the challenges she faced, Bland remained resilient, choosing to continue her work as a news presenter on Radio 5 Live while battling the disease. She believed in being known as Rachael the news presenter instead of Rachael the cancer patient.
However, in the midst of her struggle, Bland faced unwarranted criticism from internet trolls who accused her of not fighting cancer hard enough. Undeterred by their negativity, she decided to use her platform to raise awareness about cancer. Bland launched the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C, where she engaged in candid discussions about the disease with fellow cancer patients Deborah James and Lauren Mahon. This podcast resonated with many, offering a unique blend of humor and advice on managing cancer.
Throughout her journey, Bland maintained hope for a breakthrough in her treatment. In early 2018, she participated in a clinical trial of experimental treatment at the Christie Hospital in Manchester. Unfortunately, the trial proved unsuccessful, and Bland received the devastating news that her cancer had spread and was now incurable. Still, she remained optimistic and grateful for the clinical treatments available.
Tragically, Rachael Bland passed away on 5 September 2018, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and the unwavering dedication she exhibited in raising cancer awareness. Her contributions as a journalist, presenter, and advocate have left an indelible mark on society.