Kate Garraway has shared a rare glimpse of husband Derek Draper in recovery as she praised his ‘wonderful’ carer.
The 55-year-old almost died when he contracted Covid in March 2020. Things got so bad he ended up in intensive care and spent over a year in hospital.
Miraculously, Derek survived and was able to return home in April 2021, but he still needs round-the-clock care.
Posting a new photo on Instagram, Derek is seen sitting up in bed and smiling as he holds his carer Jake’s hand.
In the caption, Kate wrote: “Many of you will remember Jake who cared for Derek when he first came out of hospital in April 21 – from the documentary #caringforderek, so you will know what a wonderful healthcare professional he is.”
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Revealing Jake has a hidden skill, Kate continued: “But have just found out he’s also an amazing musician – under the name @sencymiller.x.
“He’s just released a song called #okukuseku (check it out in his bio) – which no surprise is full of love and inspiration to keep going & never give up.”
The Good Morning Britain presenter added: “The world of carers never fails to surprise me with their depths of talent, thoughtfulness and motivation.”
Kate’s colleague and GMB doctor, Dr Amir Khan was quick to comment: “He is a wonderful human.”
Jake himself replied to the post saying: “Thank you so much. It’s a big privilege to be there for Derek.”
At the end of last year, Kate broke down in tears as she spoke to Lorraine Kelly about feeling a “burden” to her colleagues as Derek’s health battle continues.
In the emotional chat, the 55-year-old revealed she is worried people are “fed up to the back teeth” of her talking about it after Derek recently spent another worrying few days in hospital.
She said: “It’s a long onslaught. I can see he has better days, he has worse days. He is, thankfully, at home now, It’s been a long battle to get him back home again.
“That’s the problem, I think, if you are caring or if you have a long-term situation, as Derek has. It doesn’t go away quickly and the fight goes on.”
Last month, Derek also suffered a fall when he slipped out of his wheelchair as they travelled in a taxi.
Although the vehicle was wheelchair-friendly, Derek slipped as they went over a speed bump.
Luckily Kate was able to get Derek back in his seat with the help of the taxi driver, but said other taxi drivers might not have been able to manage it.
Former political advisor Derek is thought to be the worst affected living Covid patient in the UK.
He spent 13 months in hospital and continues to receive care at home as he still has issues with mobility, communication and has struggled with major health problems.
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