Former GMTV star Fiona Phillips has bravely revealed intimate details of her Alzheimer's diagnosis in a moving new interview, while disclosing an unexpected gesture of support from former co-star Phillip Schofield.
A Devastating Diagnosis
The 62-year-old broadcaster shared how she initially dismissed her symptoms as menopause-related before receiving the life-changing diagnosis earlier this year. "I thought I was heading for a breakdown," Phillips confessed, describing the memory lapses and confusion that prompted medical investigations.
Unexpected Comfort from Former Colleague
In a touching revelation, Phillips spoke about receiving unexpected support from Phillip Schofield, her former GMTV colleague. Despite their complicated history and Schofield's own recent controversies, the presenter reached out with a heartfelt message that moved Phillips to tears.
"His words meant more than he'll ever know," she admitted, though choosing to keep the exact contents of their private exchange confidential.
Family First Approach
The journalist emphasized how her husband Martin Frizell, editor of ITV's This Morning, and their two sons have become her rock throughout this challenging journey:
- Martin has taken on additional caregiving responsibilities
- Their sons have shown remarkable maturity in understanding her condition
- The family has adapted their home life to support her needs
Breaking the Stigma
By going public with her diagnosis, Phillips hopes to challenge misconceptions about early-onset Alzheimer's. "This isn't just an old person's disease," she stressed, pointing to the growing number of younger people being diagnosed with various forms of dementia.
The media personality is currently participating in a groundbreaking clinical trial while continuing her journalistic work as her condition allows, proving that life doesn't end with an Alzheimer's diagnosis.
