Television presenter Ruth Langsford has shared a poignant and emotional update about her mother's health, revealing how it has shaped her feelings towards the upcoming festive season.
A Bittersweet Festive Season
The Loose Women star, 65, confessed that Christmas feels particularly significant this year as she navigates her mother Joan's ongoing battle with Alzheimer's disease. Her 94-year-old mother resides in a care home near Ruth's residence, allowing for regular visits.
Although Joan receives professional care, Ruth personally manages all her mother's needs, including medical appointments and shopping requests. This close involvement has made the presenter acutely aware of life's fragility and the importance of treasuring every moment.
Family Loss and Cherished Moments
Ruth's perspective on time has been shaped by profound family losses. Her father passed away in 2012 from dementia-related complications, followed seven years later by the tragic death of her sister, Julia, who took her own life after struggling with depression.
These experiences of grief make the festive period particularly emotional for Ruth, though she focuses on the positive. "I confess I do make every Christmas extra special," she told Woman Magazine. "I speak a lot about my lovely mum and about the battle she is facing, so every year with her is a privilege."
Christmas Traditions and Moving Forward
For the big day, Ruth plans to spend time with family and will be doing the cooking herself, something she genuinely enjoys. She will also embrace quality time with her 23-year-old son Jack, whom she shares with ex-husband Eamonn Holmes.
The couple announced their separation after 14 years of marriage last year, but Ruth is determined to maintain family traditions. "Even though Jack is grown up, I love to keep the traditions alive," she shared. "[I still do] stockings, loads of decorations and Christmas games. Christmas is magical, no matter what age you are."
Despite the challenges, Ruth describes herself as the "happiest" she's been in a long time and remains grateful for her career opportunities. When asked about a potential return to This Morning with her "TV son" Rylan Clark, she responded enthusiastically: "If they'd have me, they only have to ask, especially with Rylan! I love Rylan. He's like my son, really."
Reflecting on what truly matters, Ruth concluded with heartfelt honesty about her mother: "I don't know how many more Christmases she might have and I value every bit of time I have with her."
