Kate Garraway has provided an encouraging update on her husband Derek Draper's health, as he accompanied her to Windsor Castle for her MBE investiture. The 56-year-old TV presenter received the honour for services to broadcasting, journalism and charity.
Derek, 55, who became the UK's longest surviving hospital patient with Covid-19, was able to sit upright in a wheelchair during the ceremony. Garraway admitted she had been uncertain he could attend after a difficult ten days, but was delighted he was present.
Speaking after the ceremony, Garraway described the moment Prince William asked about Derek's wellbeing. 'He said "how is Derek", and I said "well he's here", and then they looked at each other and Derek burst into tears,' she recounted. 'Derek has been very emotional all day today actually, saying "I'm so proud".'
Derek was seen smiling in a wheelchair, wearing a blue suit and striped tie, while Garraway wore a Lisa Redman dress. Her parents also attended the ceremony.
Earlier this month, Garraway revealed Derek had begun to speak in a whisper. She told Loose Women that her son Billy was moved to tears when Derek commented on a new basketball, saying 'It's nice'.
Derek was hospitalised with Covid-19 in March 2020 and spent months in a coma. He returned home in April 2023, three years after his initial diagnosis.
