James Valentine’s ‘Year of Living Gratefully’ Chronicles His Final Months with Oesophageal Cancer

Key facts

• James Valentine was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer two and a half years ago.
• He was offered two different treatment options by two different doctors, both carrying risk.
• Valentine chose the treatment that allowed him to continue presenting radio, playing saxophone, and enjoying food.
• The cancer returned a year after treatment.
• Australian Story followed Valentine over 12 months as he made peace with his decision.
• The documentary is titled 'A Year of Living Gratefully' and is available on ABC iview.
• Valentine’s story was introduced by Australian Story presenter Leigh Sales.

A Broadcaster’s Final Act

James Valentine, the Australian radio host known for his curiosity and love of conversation, spent his last year turning a terminal diagnosis into a lesson in gratitude. The 12-month documentary, 'A Year of Living Gratefully,' captures his journey after being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer two and a half years ago. Valentine faced a stark choice between two treatment options, each carrying significant risk. He opted for the path that let him keep doing what he loved: presenting radio, playing the saxophone, and enjoying food.

The Decision That Defined His Final Year

When two doctors offered different treatment plans, Valentine weighed the trade-offs. One option might have extended his life but would have stripped away the activities that gave it meaning. He chose the treatment that preserved his quality of life, even though it meant the cancer could return. A year later, the cancer did return. Rather than regret, Valentine turned his focus to dying well, a process the ABC’s Australian Story documented over the following 12 months.

A Year of Living Gratefully

The documentary, introduced by Australian Story presenter Leigh Sales, follows Valentine as he makes peace with his choice and embraces his remaining time. The title, 'A Year of Living Gratefully,' reflects his philosophy: to fill his last days with joy and happiness. Valentine’s story resonated widely, with public queries highlighting his final year and the lessons he shared. The film is available on ABC iview.

The Man Behind the Microphone

Valentine was described as curious, whimsical, and a true lover of conversation — a one-of-a-kind broadcaster. His career spanned decades, and his voice became a familiar presence in Australian homes. His decision to prioritize living fully over simply surviving longer became the central narrative of his final year. The documentary captures not just his decline, but his active pursuit of gratitude.

Wider Context and Legacy

Valentine’s story is part of a broader conversation about end-of-life choices and the meaning of a good death. His openness about his diagnosis and treatment decisions has sparked discussion among audiences. The documentary also ties into other recent Australian Story features, including a breakthrough in the Celine Cremer case and a basketball documentary coming to SBS On Demand, but Valentine’s remains a standout for its intimate portrayal of mortality.

What Comes Next

The documentary serves as Valentine’s final broadcast, a testament to his philosophy. For viewers, it offers a model of how to face the end with grace. As the public continues to engage with his story through searches and discussions, Valentine’s 'year of living gratefully' leaves a lasting impact on how Australians think about life, death, and the choices in between.

The bottom line

• James Valentine chose a treatment that preserved his ability to work and enjoy life, even though the cancer returned.
• The documentary 'A Year of Living Gratefully' follows his final 12 months as he embraces gratitude.
• Valentine’s story highlights the personal nature of end-of-life medical decisions.
• The film is available on ABC iview and has sparked widespread public interest.
• Valentine’s legacy as a broadcaster is intertwined with his candid approach to dying.