The journalist Steve Hewlett wrote and spoke openly about his experience with terminal oesophageal cancer before his death. He had weekly conversations on BBC Radio 4's PM programme about his diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Although very ill, he remained objective in describing his physical state and found using his journalistic instincts was the only way to cope. His writing reached a wide audience and provided valuable information for others suffering from cancer. After his death, many people said how much his broadcasts had helped them and their families going through similar experiences.