Janice Forsyth, a renowned BBC Radio Scotland presenter, has announced her departure from the station after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. With a career spanning over 30 years, Forsyth has been a beloved figure in Scottish broadcasting, presenting shows on BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio Four, and BBC Radio Three. Her diagnosis, which she described as a "huge blow," has prompted her to step down from her presenting duties, although she plans to continue working with her podcast production company, The Big Light.

Forsyth's symptoms, which began in 2022, included deep feelings of anxiety, difficulty with navigation, and memory lapses. Initially, she attributed these symptoms to exhaustion and grief following the loss of her mother. However, after receiving a firm diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's disease, she feels a sense of relief in finally understanding the cause of her struggles. Forsyth expressed her gratitude for the support of her friends, family, and the NHS Scotland, and she remains optimistic, stating "I'm not done yet." She will continue to work with The Big Light, a company she co-founded five years ago, which has been going from strength to strength.

Throughout her career, Forsyth has interviewed numerous celebrities, including Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, and Billy Connolly. She has also presented various shows, such as the Culture Studio, the Janice Forsyth Show, and the Afternoon Show. Her colleagues and audience have praised her for her outstanding skill as a presenter, her warmth, and her in-depth knowledge of arts, music, and culture. Louise Thornton, the head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, paid tribute to Forsyth, acknowledging her significant contribution to Scottish broadcasting and expressing the team's desire to continue working with her in suitable capacities.

Early-onset Alzheimer's disease, also known as young-onset Alzheimer's, is a rare form of the condition that affects people under the age of 65. According to Dementia UK, approximately 70,800 people in the UK are living with young-onset dementia. Forsyth's public announcement of her diagnosis aims to raise awareness about this condition and encourage others to seek support if they are concerned about their brain health. By sharing her story, Forsyth hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding dementia and promote a better understanding of the complex issues surrounding the disease. Her bravery in speaking publicly about her diagnosis has been praised by Dementia UK, and her decision to continue working with The Big Light demonstrates her resilience in the face of adversity.

In addition to her work in radio broadcasting, Forsyth has also been involved in various other projects, including writing columns and chairing the Rothesay Pavilion charity. Her dedication to the arts and her passion for sharing her knowledge with others have made her a beloved figure in Scottish cultural circles. As she navigates this new chapter in her life, Forsyth remains committed to enjoying the arts for her own pleasure, and her fans will undoubtedly continue to support her in her future endeavors. With her diagnosis, Forsyth has shown that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to remain positive and focused on the things that bring joy and fulfillment.