Doctors told BBC Radio 2 DJ Johnnie Walker to “prepare to die at any moment.”

BBC Radio 2 DJ Johnnie Walker has revealed that doctors told him to “prepare to die at any moment.” Diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis twenty years ago, Walker has worked at the BBC since 1969 and has been with Radio 2 since 1998, hosting shows like Sounds of the 70s and The Radio 2 Rock Show. Now presenting his shows from his home in Dorset, he is cared for full-time by his wife, Tiggy.

In recognition of Carers Week, the Walkers have shared their experiences on their podcast, Walker and Walker: Johnnie and Tiggy. Johnnie discussed having “only a finite amount of time left here in the physical before I pass over,” describing it as “a very reflective time for us.” Tiggy recalled how a consultant once told them that Johnnie should “prepare to go at any moment,” although they also noted, “Equally, you might be around for six months.”