Former 2GB broadcaster Ray Hadley has shared a heartfelt update regarding his three-year-old granddaughter, Lola, who has recently been diagnosed with leukaemia. In an emotional interview on 2GB’s Ben Fordham Live, Hadley described the last seven weeks as an unbearable ordeal for his family.
Lola’s health issues began around Christmas when her parents noticed she wasn’t well. By mid-January, she was diagnosed with the blood cancer, prompting Hadley to rush back to Australia from Las Vegas, where he was attending an NRL event. Upon receiving the diagnosis, Lola’s parents, Brad and Laura, were devastated, enveloped by feelings of inconsolability typical in such dire circumstances.
Immediately after her diagnosis, Lola commenced aggressive treatment for leukaemia. Despite the challenges ahead, Hadley expressed that his granddaughter continues to radiate positivity, remarking on her endearing, cheerful nature. He explained how she consistently brings joy to those around her, often playfully tricking him with jokes about spiders in his hair.
Lola’s parents are managing the difficult balance between hospital visits and maintaining a semblance of home life as her treatment progresses. Hadley acknowledged that the diagnosis has profoundly unsettled the family’s routine, leaving them feeling lost and entirely focused on managing this crisis. Yet, he stressed that they are not unique in their struggles, noting that many families across Australia face similar challenges.
In a show of solidarity with Lola, Hadley plans to shave his head once her hair begins to fall out from chemotherapy. He hopes that by speaking out about Lola’s battle, he can provide some comfort to other families undergoing similar experiences, encouraging them to confront the harsh realities of such diagnoses together.
Hadley thanked the public for their overwhelming support during this tumultuous time, insisting that they are simply doing their best to endure the emotional turmoil of their situation.