Nick Robinson reveals how post-cancer voice therapy has helped him get back to work
The new presenter of BBC Radio 4's Today programme says his voice is unlikely to fully recover following his treatment for lung cancer, but he's developed a number of techniques to keep his vocal chords fit for broadcast
Nick Robinson apologised for a "croaky first day" during his presenting debut on BBC Radio 4's Today programme – although given how much voice therapy he has had to do since being treated for lung cancer, he shouldn't have to say sorry.
The BBC's former political editor reveals that he has developed several techniques to keep his voice fit for broadcasting, from steam inhalation to 'vocal sound repetitions' – which to most people sound like random mutterings.
"I've developed a technique where if I have to mutter to myself, I put my earphones in, and people think you're talking into the phone," he says in the latest issue of Radio Times magazine.
Robinson first blogged about his illness for the BBC in March following an operation to remove a tumour in his lung, but continued to receive chemotherapy treatment through the summer of 2015.
However, nerve damage following the operation has affected the 52-year-old's voice, and he says it is unlikely to fully recover. He sees a speech therapist, and spends 15 minutes inhaling steam beneath a towel twice a day.
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However, the new Today presenter says his voice therapy and the cancer will not affect his new position.
"The medical problem was cancer, and the good news is the surgery cleared that up," says Robinson. "As far as anyone can say it's not a problem – you still have to have the checks – it's not a problem, which is tremendous."
Read the full interview with Nick Robinson in the latest issue of Radio Times magazine, in stores and on the Apple Newsstand from Tuesday 17th November
