‘IT'S LIKE HE DISAPPEARS'

She’s had the toughest few years of her life, and although her career continues to flourish, Kate Garraway admits the pain is ever-present

CHLOE THOMAS

Reflecting on the inner turmoil she has endured since her beloved husband Derek Draper contracted COVID, TV presenter Kate Garraway, 54, said recently, ‘It does feel like I’ve walked through a fiery furnace and fallen down the rabbit hole. The world went dark and I am still looking for the light at the end.’

Derek, 54, a former Labour spin doctor, has been devastated by the illness, which has left him in a minimally conscious state.

Now Kate, who is mum to Darcey, 15, and Billy, 12, is looking after Derek, juggling her busy presenting career with her regular role on Good Morning Britain and providing his round-the-clock care.

In a recent interview, she said, ‘Derek will turn to me and say “I love you”. He is there, he has fought so hard to stay in this world and I am not giving up on him, ever. He will have moments of clarity, then it’s like he disappears, but then he finds a voice.’