Jeremy Bowen, the BBC’s international editor, expressed his gratitude and appreciation after being informed he was cancer-free four-and-a-half years ago.
The Cardiff-born journalist opened up about his battle with bowel cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2019 while reporting in Iraq. He underwent chemotherapy for a significant tumor, as he revealed during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs with Lauren Laverne.
Bowen admitted that his optimistic outlook dimmed during his illness, but surviving the ordeal has reignited his positive perspective on life. He shared, “I think that has also helped me get a sense of perspective on life.”
With over four decades of experience at the BBC, Bowen has reported from more than 70 countries and covered 20 wars, including conflicts in the Middle East, Afghanistan, the Balkans, Africa, Central America, and most recently Ukraine. Additionally, he has presented documentaries and had a stint on BBC Breakfast.
The seasoned journalist spoke about the impact of witnessing war firsthand on his mental well-being. He acknowledged the challenging moments he faced and how severe depression affected him a few years ago. Taking time off work and utilizing medication aided his recovery. Bowen emphasized the importance of appreciating life’s blessings and not becoming overly entangled in trivial matters.
Reflecting on his first experience covering war in El Salvador in 1989, Bowen recalled feeling somewhat invincible, as if he were starring in his own war film. Initially, he was unaware of the true nature of gunfire when he heard shots fired in anger. Despite the danger, he admitted to feeling excitement.
Bowen discussed how reporting from war zones has changed significantly due to the prevalence of social media and the internet. He noted the increased vulnerability of journalists and the dangers posed by “unscrupulous” individuals attempting to manipulate events by targeting reporters. He remarked on the contrast between the past, where journalists were often seen as non-combatants and could rely on white flags to ensure their safety, and the present, where risks are more prevalent.
Throughout his career, Bowen has received numerous accolades, including Royal Television Society awards for his coverage of the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and an interview with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Despite his international recognition, he has always maintained a strong connection to his Welsh heritage. Bowen’s parents, Jennifer and Gareth, both worked in the press industry, instilling in him a passion for journalism from a young age. His memories include his father typing away on a manual typewriter and witnessing his dedication during the Aberfan disaster in 1966.
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Even as a 10-year-old boy in Whitchurch, Cardiff, Bowen already harbored a desire to become a foreign correspondent, despite not fully understanding the role at the time. Embracing his unique perspective and feeling like he never quite fit in, he laughed and acknowledged being “a bit weird” from an early age.