Veteran journalist John Stapleton, 78, has announced he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The broadcaster, known for his work on Newsnight, Panorama and GMTV's News Hour, shared the news in a video clip on BBC One's Morning Live with his son Nick.
Stapleton described the frustration of losing his ability to speak clearly, saying: 'Speaking is how I’ve earned my living for the best part of 50 years. It’s very frustrating sometimes, particularly [when] people are constantly saying to you: Sorry, what did you say? And you have to repeat yourself, time and time again.' He added he is 'pragmatic' about the condition worsening but tries to remain positive.
His son Nick, also a journalist, said the diagnosis was 'really upsetting' but not unexpected, as their grandmother also had the degenerative condition. Stapleton recalled his mother's decline from a 'lively, ebullient, outgoing lady' to a 'fairly fragile' person, and noted he is now facing similar practical problems, such as opening a can of beans or peeling a potato.
Discussing the future, Stapleton expressed a desire to remain independent and stay in his home as long as possible. He said he would accept a stairlift if needed but would be reluctant to go into care, adding he is 'a realist'. Parkinson's UK thanked Stapleton for his announcement and offered support.
