Kate Garraway withdraws from all commitments as her husband, Derek Draper, undergoes a ‘severe heart attack

 

Kate Garraway remains at her husband Derek Draper’s side as he battles through severe health complications. Derek, a political consultant, was hospitalised after experiencing a “massive heart attack” just before Christmas. His condition took a turn for the worse on Monday, leaving the family hoping for a miraculous recovery, as reported by The Sun. Sources revealed that Derek’s sudden deterioration was unexpected, given his previously positive state of health and upbeat mood prior to the heart attack.

Since contracting COVID-19 in 2020, Derek has been grappling with its lasting effects, leading to a medically-induced coma and a prolonged recovery period. His ongoing struggles include liver problems and kidney failure, requiring constant care.

In a candid conversation on the Emotionally Speaking podcast, Kate expressed her constant worry, admitting she never felt entirely secure about her husband’s health due to his persistent medical challenges.

His emotional struggle has been considerable,” she remarked. “Dealing with Derek has always been tinged with an uncertainty about his safety, so every infection and return to the hospital feels like it could be the moment we lose him.”

The Good Morning Britain presenter also expressed her anguish at witnessing his condition. “Seeing him wake up in the morning is utterly heartbreaking,” the mother of two elucidated. “It’s like observing someone who might be living his previous life in his dreams. Then he awakens, and you witness the weight of the challenge he faces descend upon him.

Derek recently spent time in the hospital, and Kate shared some insights about the experience on Loose Women. She reassured the audience that it was a ‘positive’ visit, prompted by a referral, and optimistically mentioned that his stay wouldn’t be prolonged. Kate mentioned, for the first time, that he’s currently back in hospital. She clarified, however, that it’s not a dire situation, fortunately.

She explained, ‘There have been multiple referrals and cancellations, and he’s back for a procedure that began last year and now requires its second part. This procedure aims to improve his movement and contractions. It’s a positive hospital visit, and hopefully, his stay won’t be prolonged.’

Speaking to Metro at the Pride of Britain Awards in October, the journalist disclosed that her husband was “struggling.”

The couple has two teenage children, Darcey and Billy, who are both coping with their “individual traumas” arising from their father’s illness.

During her appearance on This Morning, Kate discussed her children’s coping mechanisms. “They come truly alive in their presence,” she remarked. “They’re remarkable. In some respects, I haven’t delved into their experiences much, as they’ve faced their own hardships, and it’s not my tale to share.”