**Prominent Welsh Journalist Defers Cancer Surgery to Attend Eisteddfod Celebration**
A Welsh broadcaster’s commitment to her nation’s culture has seen her make a remarkable personal decision: delaying vital cancer surgery in order to attend the esteemed National Eisteddfod. Maxine Hughes, a respected journalist originally from Conwy, made headlines after choosing to prioritise her passion for Welsh heritage, pausing her treatment so she could participate in this year’s milestone event in Wrexham.
Ms Hughes, well known for her role as a translator for Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney on the popular Disney+ series “Welcome to Wrexham”, has faced a difficult year. Late last year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, compounding the emotional strain of recently losing her father. After enduring an intensive regimen of chemotherapy, she now faces a double mastectomy – yet insisted on putting the operation on hold so as not to miss an event of huge cultural significance.
Speaking candidly to BBC Radio Wales, Hughes described being at the Maes for the Eisteddfod and receiving her honour as “a dream come true.” Her surgeon, based in the United States where Hughes now lives with her family, was reportedly taken aback by her request to postpone the procedure. However, he ultimately supported her wish to travel home for the event, agreeing to delay her surgery by a week.
The Eisteddfod, a key annual festival celebrating Welsh language and culture, is particularly meaningful for Hughes this year, as she is being inducted into the Gorsedd – a society that acknowledges significant contributions to Welsh life. Accepting the title of Leader of Wales and the World, Hughes spoke movingly of her family’s roots in Wrexham, noting the deep pride her late father would have felt. “It is such a great honour to be recognised by the Gorsedd, especially here in Wrexham, my father’s hometown,” she remarked.
The sense of occasion was heightened by Hughes’ unexpected hospital setting when she first learned the news of her Gorsedd induction. “I nearly fainted I was so happy,” she admitted, highlighting the incredible personal significance of the accolade, especially during such a challenging period in her life.
Though some had speculated that “Welcome to Wrexham” stars Reynolds and McElhenney might attend the Eisteddfod this year, Hughes clarified that their attention was presently focused on preparing Wrexham AFC for an imminent football season. While dismissing rumours of their attendance, she took the opportunity to praise their efforts in revitalising the city and football club, noting the positive impact they have brought to the community. “What they have done with the club has been fantastic and I appreciate what they have done for the city,” she observed.
Hughes has maintained a tradition of returning to Wales each August with her two sons, keen for them to experience family connections and immerse themselves in the festival wherever it is hosted. For her, the Eisteddfod represents a cherished annual ritual and a way of staying close to both her heritage and extended family.
Her courageous decision reflects the value many place on the Eisteddfod as a linchpin of Welsh identity and cultural continuity. As Leader of Wales and the World this year, Maxine Hughes personifies the enduring power of the festival to celebrate individual contributions and unite Welsh people, whether at home or abroad.
This year’s Eisteddfod carries special resonance for Hughes, combining professional recognition, personal heritage, and a determined message about living life to the full, even in the face of adversity. Her story stands as a reminder of the deep bonds of culture and the extraordinary decisions people are sometimes willing to make for the communities and values they cherish most.