Final Sighting of Derek Draper as Kate Garraway and Family Maintain Vigil by His Hospital Bedside

 

Derek Draper, last seen publicly supporting his wife Kate Garraway, has faced a challenging journey since contracting coronavirus in the early days of the 2020 pandemic. The 56-year-old political advisor has been gravely ill, recently returning to the hospital after experiencing a heart attack. Kate, the Good Morning Britain presenter, has halted all radio and TV commitments to be by his side alongside their family.

Spending an extensive 13 months in hospital, Derek holds the unfortunate record as Britain’s longest-suffering Covid-19 patient, enduring enduring organ damage and necessitating constant 24/7 care at home. Despite the hardships, he had been eagerly anticipating a significant family Christmas alongside his wife Kate and their two children, 17-year-old Darcey and 14-year-old Billy.

Derek, last seen supporting his wife Kate as she received an MBE at Windsor Castle in June, is now battling for his life following a sudden heart attack. Adorned in a dark blue suit, light blue shirt, and patterned tie, he watched proudly from a wheelchair, beaming ear to ear during the ceremony. Kate, recognised for her contributions to broadcasting, journalism, and charity, highlighted Derek’s determination to witness her receiving the honour.

Taking to Instagram, Kate shared her sentiments: ‘It’s been a remarkable week, starting and ending with Derek in hospital, but with this extraordinary day in between. Your messages have been incredibly moving, and Derek’s determination to be there was heartening. The Prince of Wales made it special for him, acknowledging the work of our incredible carer, Jake, and the unwavering support of my parents.’

She added, ‘Meeting others deserving of honours was humbling, and the Prince of Wales made each of them feel as special as they are.’ Kate revealed Derek’s emotional response to her MBE, bursting into tears during the ceremony, which caught the attention of Prince William.

While conversing with Prince William, they both turned to check on Derek, who was visibly emotional. Presently, Kate is said to be ‘praying for a miracle,’ maintaining a bedside vigil for her husband. A source revealed to The Sun: ‘Derek’s suffered a sudden massive heart attack, leaving him fighting for his life once more. This setback has deeply affected his family and his caregivers, as he was doing well and looking forward to Christmas at home.’

The source continued, ‘Kate remains by his side 24/7, urging him to overcome this latest battle.’ Earlier this year, Kate shared their ongoing challenges despite Derek’s slight improvement. Speaking to Good Housekeeping, she expressed, ‘I wish I could say things have become easier since Derek’s return home, but the constant emergency setbacks and the fear of losing him continue. The unpredictability of his condition keeps us on an emotional rollercoaster.’