Kate Garraway’s husband Derek Draper isn’t in a ‘good way’, her co-star says in worrying update
KATE Garraway’s husband Derek Draper isn’t in a “good way”, says her co-star in a worrying update.
Presenter Kate, 56, recently cancelled all TV and radio work while she continues to support Derek around the clock, who is said to be fighting for his life once again in hospital.
Derek, a former lobbyist, was rushed to hospital earlier this week.
The 56-year-old suffered a heart attack in the latest setback in his brave lengthy battle.
Following the news, colleagues of Kate sent her supportive messages as she sat by her seriously ill husband’s bedside.
On Tuesday, Smooth FM Breakfast presenter Jenni Falconer told listeners “it doesn’t look like he’s in a good way”.
Jenni said: “On behalf everyone here at Smooth we’re sending lots of love and Smooth best wishes to our very own Kate Garraway.
“Kate’s husband Derek as we all know has been struggling with long-lasting damage since he suffered from Covid and it doesn’t look good at the moment, it doesn’t look like he’s in a good way.
“So we’re sending lots of love to Kate, Derek and the family… especially at this time of the year.”
Last week, friends and family were alerted to Derek’s worsening condition.
A source said: “Everyone is praying for a miracle.
“Derek suffered a massive heart attack earlier this week, which has left him fighting for his life all over again.
“It was sudden and a shock as he had been doing so well and was in great spirits, looking forward to Christmas at home with the family.
“This setback has been a huge blow. Kate is by his side 24 hours a day and is willing him on to win this latest battle for his life.”
Derek was first rushed to hospital with Covid in March 2020, before spending 13 months in hospital after falling into a coma and being put on a ventilator.
He has since suffered ongoing health problems, with brain inflammation, kidney failure and liver and pancreas damage – as well as having difficulty breathing unaided.
Last February, Kate and Derek flew to Mexico for a ground-breaking medical trial before two further trips to specialist clinics in a last ditch attempt to help him lead a normal life.
Derek — whose days have largely been filled with appointments, hospital trips and sleeping — has been the subject of two critically acclaimed documentaries fronted by Kate.
In June, Kate was awarded an MBE, with Derek joining her at Windsor Castle for the award.