Dame Esther Rantzen is marking Christmas ahead of schedule this year (Image: Steve Reigate)

Dame Esther Rantzen is marking Christmas ahead of schedule with her loved ones this year - fearing she may not survive until the actual festive period.

The broadcaster and activist admits she continues to surprise herself by reaching significant moments after receiving her terminal lung cancer diagnosis almost three years ago. The grandmother-of-five has been campaigning tirelessly for the legalisation of assisted dying since her shocking health revelation, though progress on the Assisted Dying Bill has stalled, and the 85-year-old previously stated she doubts she'll witness its passage during her remaining time.

The seasoned television host, who established the charity Childline in 1986,

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