Edwina Bartholomew's surprise return after cancer news
In a heartwarming moment, beloved Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew made her much-anticipated return to the breakfast show after sharing her cancer diagnosis live on air earlier this month.
On Friday, Bartholomew joined the team live from Melbourne as Sunrise geared up for the AFL Grand Final between the Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions. Radiating positivity, she shared her excitement at being back on the show.
"I’m so well rested," she beamed. "I’ve had a huge, gigantic warm embrace from Sunrise viewers, and I didn’t want to miss today."
Bartholomew’s love for the AFL Grand Final and her Sunrise family brought her back to the desk, with her characteristic humour intact. “I wanted to be back in time, not just for the mini jaffles, but to see you all and be here for the wonderful week in Melbourne,” she quipped.
Hosts Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington welcomed her back with open arms. “Good to have you back,” Barr said warmly, while Shirvington added, “Great to be back.”
In early September, Bartholomew tearfully revealed to viewers that she had been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia after a routine blood test. Despite the diagnosis, her positive outlook has been inspiring. "It's a good kind of cancer, it can be treated with a daily tablet. If I take care of myself, I will be completely fine," she reassured viewers.
Bartholomew has been spending time with her family, including husband Neil Varcoe and their two young children, Molly, 4, and Tom, 2. While she plans to ease back into work, she’s expected to appear only a few days a week.
Her return brought a wave of support from viewers, who had sent well-wishes throughout her time off. Bartholomew expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love. “I feel very lucky,” she said. "Many of you have been in similar situations or much, much worse, and come out the other side stronger."
In her classy and heartfelt follow-up message online, she spoke about the importance of putting health first, especially for mothers who often put their own well-being last. "Please take care of yourself too, and just check in with your doctor."
With her return, Bartholomew brings back not just her signature charm, but also a reminder of optimism and the importance of self-care. Sunrise viewers are no doubt thrilled to see her smiling face once again, and the show is all the brighter for it.
Images: Sunrise