The heartbreaking reason why this ABC star presenter hasn't been on the air in months
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If you regularly tune in to The Drum, the nightly current affairs and news analysis program broadcasted on the ABC News Channel, then we're pretty sure you know who Julia Baird is.
The respected Australian journalist has been one of the show's hosts since 2011, and is known for her passion for social justice and championing women's rights. But in recent months, Baird has been noticeably absent from our screens, causing many viewers to wonder where she is and why she isn't on the show anymore.
As it turns out, there's a very heartbreaking reason for her absence… one that we wish we didn't have to report.
Julia Baird hasn't been seen on air for months. Credit: TV Tonight.
Some things in life just aren't fair. For example, no one deserves to go through a major health scare, especially not more than once.
But that's exactly what Julia Baird is currently dealing with. In an Instagram post, the journalist revealed that she is set to undergo another surgery this week in her latest major health battle.
In 2015, Baird was hospitalised and diagnosed with ovarian cancer after discovering a 'mass the size of a basketball' between her belly button and spine. She had surgery to remove the tumour that same year, but unfortunately, it returned, so now the 55-year-old is set to undergo another operation this week in her latest battle.
In a long social media message dedicated to family, friends, fans and followers, she confirmed she would not be back on the air until 2023.
'To all those who have written to ask why I have not been on The Drum in the past few months, thank you,' she began her heartfelt letter. 'I am due to go in for more surgery this week, and it will take a good while to recover, so I will not be back on air until next year.'
The columnist also announced that she was stepping down from her position as Editor at Large for Harper's Bazaar and taking a bit of a break from contributing to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age while she recovers.
Even though she won't be gracing our screens or writing columns for a while, Baird made it clear that she still loves her work dearly.
She said: 'I truly love all of this work – making TV, creating space for important discussions, for unheard voices and untold stories, writing, editing and working with some truly excellent minds and determined, creative souls. It's a joy and a privilege – so for those who watch, read and engage, thank you.'
Baird also addressed her avid followers and fans, expressing how grateful she was for all the messages and kind words she has been receiving.
'Being part of a community of readers, thinkers, debaters, big-hearted people, light-seekers and hunters of awe and wonder is one of the best things about being a writer and a journalist,' she added.
The social media message has sparked an overwhelming response from several Australian public figures and industry professionals, such as The Hon Julie Bishop, Leigh Sales, Mia Freedman from Mama Mia, Julie Goodwin from Masterchef, Tara Moss, and Jodie Speers, to name a few.
Even ABC hosts such as Paul Barry commented on the post, expressing his support for the journalist.
'So sorry to hear you're going another round. It's unfair, but you have been so brave about it, and we're all cheering for you. See you back on The Drum soon. PB,' he said.
Baird was first diagnosed with cancer in 2015. Credit: ABC.
Baird's abrupt absence came as a surprise to many viewers. But following the news, she was quickly hailed as an inspiration, with many viewers expressing how they were thankful that she shared the details surrounding her health journey.
'Never underestimate the impact of sharing what you're going through.' one person wrote in the comments section. 'Keep fighting, girl! You are an inspiration.' added another.
'Wishing you everything good in this life and know you will find the strength you need to overcome this next challenge. Love and hugs to you!' wrote a third.
It’s devastating to hear that Julia Baird's cancer has returned, and we wish her every success on her road to recovery. What are your thoughts on this story, members? Share them with us in the comments below.
The respected Australian journalist has been one of the show's hosts since 2011, and is known for her passion for social justice and championing women's rights. But in recent months, Baird has been noticeably absent from our screens, causing many viewers to wonder where she is and why she isn't on the show anymore.
As it turns out, there's a very heartbreaking reason for her absence… one that we wish we didn't have to report.
Julia Baird hasn't been seen on air for months. Credit: TV Tonight.
Some things in life just aren't fair. For example, no one deserves to go through a major health scare, especially not more than once.
But that's exactly what Julia Baird is currently dealing with. In an Instagram post, the journalist revealed that she is set to undergo another surgery this week in her latest major health battle.
In 2015, Baird was hospitalised and diagnosed with ovarian cancer after discovering a 'mass the size of a basketball' between her belly button and spine. She had surgery to remove the tumour that same year, but unfortunately, it returned, so now the 55-year-old is set to undergo another operation this week in her latest battle.
In a long social media message dedicated to family, friends, fans and followers, she confirmed she would not be back on the air until 2023.
'To all those who have written to ask why I have not been on The Drum in the past few months, thank you,' she began her heartfelt letter. 'I am due to go in for more surgery this week, and it will take a good while to recover, so I will not be back on air until next year.'
The columnist also announced that she was stepping down from her position as Editor at Large for Harper's Bazaar and taking a bit of a break from contributing to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age while she recovers.
Even though she won't be gracing our screens or writing columns for a while, Baird made it clear that she still loves her work dearly.
She said: 'I truly love all of this work – making TV, creating space for important discussions, for unheard voices and untold stories, writing, editing and working with some truly excellent minds and determined, creative souls. It's a joy and a privilege – so for those who watch, read and engage, thank you.'
Baird also addressed her avid followers and fans, expressing how grateful she was for all the messages and kind words she has been receiving.
'Being part of a community of readers, thinkers, debaters, big-hearted people, light-seekers and hunters of awe and wonder is one of the best things about being a writer and a journalist,' she added.
The social media message has sparked an overwhelming response from several Australian public figures and industry professionals, such as The Hon Julie Bishop, Leigh Sales, Mia Freedman from Mama Mia, Julie Goodwin from Masterchef, Tara Moss, and Jodie Speers, to name a few.
Even ABC hosts such as Paul Barry commented on the post, expressing his support for the journalist.
'So sorry to hear you're going another round. It's unfair, but you have been so brave about it, and we're all cheering for you. See you back on The Drum soon. PB,' he said.
Baird was first diagnosed with cancer in 2015. Credit: ABC.
Baird's abrupt absence came as a surprise to many viewers. But following the news, she was quickly hailed as an inspiration, with many viewers expressing how they were thankful that she shared the details surrounding her health journey.
'Never underestimate the impact of sharing what you're going through.' one person wrote in the comments section. 'Keep fighting, girl! You are an inspiration.' added another.
'Wishing you everything good in this life and know you will find the strength you need to overcome this next challenge. Love and hugs to you!' wrote a third.
It’s devastating to hear that Julia Baird's cancer has returned, and we wish her every success on her road to recovery. What are your thoughts on this story, members? Share them with us in the comments below.
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