Kate Garraway shared her optimism that her husband Derek Draper would be at home for Christmas, just weeks before his death following a “massive heart attack”.
Derek was admitted to hospital in mid-December, with Kate reportedly holding vigil at his bedside 24/7. She shared the sad news that Derek had passed away earlier today (January 5).
The devastating news comes after Kate shared her optimism about Derek’s recovery. And after she reportedly put on a brave face to make Christmas 2023 special for their children. The couple welcomed Billy and Darcey together.
Kate Garraway was optimistic about husband Derek’s health weeks before heart attack
Speaking on Walt Disney Travel Company’s podcast last year year, Kate said: “It is challenging, he’s [Derek] still very, very damaged.”
She added: “He still can’t really move, still can’t really speak, still fed through tubes, and so there’s a long road ahead. But if you compare it to last Christmas or the Christmas before, when he was still in hospital then you can see improvement.”
She continued: “It’s just, you just want it to be quicker and faster, of course, like everybody would. But it’s a challenging one – he spent most of last year in the hospital as well for various different things.”
However, on December 11 Derek’s health took a turn for the worse after he was left “fighting for his life all over again” – as reported by The Sun.
A source told the tabloid: “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.”
Kate’s Christmas
This setback was a “huge blow” for the family, although the source mentioned how “incredible” Kate has been throughout. And, despite her devastation, she did her best to make Christmas special for their kids, it’s claimed.
“Kate has been utterly incredible by his side while being an amazing mum to Darcey and Billy. She’s trying to manage their expectations of a family Christmas,” the source added of the selfless GMB host.
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Before Derek suffered a heart attack, speaking to OK! Kate revealed she would be hosting the big day at her house. “It’s easier for people to come to us, which means they have to suffer my cooking!” she said.
Announcing his death, Kate said: “Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.”
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