TV presenter Kate Garraway has shared an update on the condition of her husband Derek Draper, who is being treated in hospital for the coronavirus, to say he “remains in intensive care and is still very ill”.
A message was read out on air by her Good Morning Britain co-presenter Ben Shephard during Friday’s programme.
In the message, Kate said: “I’m afraid it remains an excruciatingly worrying time.
“The NHS team who are working on him have all been extraordinary and I know that it’s only their professionalism, dedication and bravery that has kept Derek with us so far.
“I also know that they are working just as hard on all the patients in their care.
“It is hard to find the right words because thank you alone just doesn’t seem enough but I do thank them with all my heart as I know Derek would also want to if he could.
“I also want to say thank you so much to everyone who has sent messages of support. I’m sorry that I haven’t been able to respond to them but I hope you understand I’m focusing on Derek and my family right now.”
She added: “However, in quieter moments, I am seeing them and they are so comforting and wonderful to read.
“I am very aware that I’m not the only one going through this torture, there are thousands of families everywhere worried about their loved ones and hundreds more every day too that are having to deal with the worst news that their loved ones have been taken by this horrific virus.
“I want to send a message of love and support to all of you going through this. You are not alone, we must all stand together and support each other.
“And I’m praying to be able to be talking with you soon with some positive news. Love, Kate.”
The daytime presenter’s husband, a former political aide to then-Labour cabinet minister Peter Mandelson, was admitted to hospital on 30 March.
The couple, who are both 52, married in 2005 and have a 14-year-old daughter and a 11-year-old son, Darcey and William.