Rhod Gilbert gives fans update on his cancer battle: 'You have to laugh at this stuff'

Green Man Festival, Wales, UK August 2016.   Comedian Rhod Gilbert on stage at the Green Man Festival - Over 25,000 music fans are due to attend over the weekend.
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Rhod Gilbert has given his fans an update as he continues his battle against stage four cancer.

In an interview with BBC Radio Wales, Gilbert discussed how he was dealing with the illness after being diagnosed in May.

He said he was feeling 'happy and optimistic' after undergoing treatment that has included surgery and chemotherapy.

Gilbert also made light of the fact that he is being treated for cancer in the same hospital he fundraises for: “I came home from a fundraising trek for Velindre as a patron… and pretty much went in as a patient.

"You have to laugh at this stuff, let’s face it. I was sitting there having chemo and there’s pictures of me on the wall as a patron. You couldn’t make it up.”

Comedian Rhod Gilbert at the PFA Player of the Year Awards 2009 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.  (Photo by Jon Buckle - PA Images via Getty Images)
Rhod Gilbert performing live. (PA Images via Getty Images)

The popular Welsh comedian confessed he did not yet know if his treatment had worked: “I won’t know if any of my treatment has worked for a few more months, but I’m feeling good. I’m feeling happy and optimistic. I feel like I’m recovering day by day and we’ll see what happens.”

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In light of him not being able to tour due to his illness, Gilbert has released a DVD of his latest comedy show The Book of John.

Comedian Rhod Gilbert performs at the PFA Player of the Year Awards 2009 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.  (Photo by Adam Davy - PA Images via Getty Images)
Rhod Gilbert has stage four cancer. (PA Images via Getty Images)

The DVD has been promoted by many of his fellow comics including Jimmy Carr who tweeted: "I’ve got a new DVD - not one I’m in one I’ve bought - it’s by my mate Rhod Gilbert and it’s bloody funny. (if you’ve got technology from 10 years ago knocking around the house get the DVD - if not download it like a normal person)."

Jason Manford also urged his social media followers to buy the comedy special, writing: “Grab #RhodGilbert’s new stand up show now! Ready for download, you could be watching it and laughing in five minutes.”

After being diagnosed with cancer, Gilbert postponed his tour which has been tentatively rescheduled for next year. Tickets will remain valid for the new dates.

Watch below: Adele Roberts opens up about the side-effects she is dealing with following cancer all-clear.