At Terrence Higgins Trust we’re sending our love and support for Paul and his husband, and glad they're being supported by and working with Alzheimer's Society .

In a post shared on social media and with journalists, Paul said: “As Freddie Mercury once sang, you can’t turn back the clock, you can’t turn back the tide. Ain’t that a shame.

'In early 2025 I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. There’s no denying it’s a serious condition with an uncertain future, but for now life goes on as normal and I continue to broadcast The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 from 8-10pm on Sundays, and my shows on Greatest Hits Radio.

'I’m grateful for the kindness and support I’ve already received. I will be as open as I can as things progress. For now, I wish to be given the space to keep on broadcasting the music I love to the listeners I love even more. These are the days of our lives.'

We are incredibly proud to have had Paul on our side since the very beginning of the HIV epidemic. 

'Paul Gambaccini has been in our thoughts since we learned of his Alzheimer’s diagnosis,' says our Chief Executive Richard Angell.

'Paul has been with Terrence Higgins Trust and those affected by HIV every step of the way – from the devastation of the 1980s right through today, as we target the end of new HIV cases in the UK by 2030.

'He has had a huge personal impact in improving public perceptions of HIV over the last 30 years and I have no doubt that from today he will do the same with Alzheimer’s, including through his brilliant radio shows.'

Sir Nick Partridge, our charity's Chief Executive from 1991-2013, added: 'Paul Gambaccini stepped up to the challenge of HIV at a time when so many others turned away. 

'Paul’s high-profile advocacy and fundraising was a vital wake up call for the public about the devastation of the Aids crisis and need for urgent action.

'Paul’s 300 Club – where 300 supporters donated £1,000 – was a game changer for Terrence Higgins Trust, securing the charity’s financial stability and place at the forefront of the UK’s HIV response. The legacy of that club and Paul’s actions continue today.'