ITV's beloved Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway has opened up about the crushing financial burden she faces while caring for her husband Derek Draper, whose life was devastated by COVID-19.
The 57-year-old broadcaster revealed she's spending an astonishing £16,000 per month on specialist care and treatments for Derek, who continues to require round-the-clock attention after the virus left him with extensive damage to his organs.
The Emotional Toll of Returning to Work
In a raw and emotional disclosure, Kate explained the heartbreaking reality behind her decision to continue working on television despite her husband's critical condition. "The reason I have to go back to work is because we're in a situation where Derek's care costs more than my salary from ITV," she confessed during her latest documentary.
This stark admission highlights the hidden financial crisis facing many families dealing with long-term serious illness, even those with what might be considered substantial incomes.
A Four-Year Battle for Recovery
Derek Draper, once a prominent political lobbyist, first fell ill with coronavirus in March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. His battle has been one of the longest and most publicised COVID journeys in the UK:
- Spent 13 months in hospital during initial treatment
- Suffered damage to his heart, kidneys, liver and pancreas
- Requires 24-hour care despite returning home
- Underwent experimental treatments abroad
Kate's latest documentary, Kate Garraway: Derek's Story, provides an unflinching look at their ongoing struggle and the reality of life with serious long-term health complications.
The Hidden Crisis of Care Costs
The Garraway family's situation exposes a critical gap in the UK's healthcare and social care systems. Despite Derek's extensive medical needs, much of his essential care isn't fully covered by the NHS, leaving families to shoulder astronomical costs.
"People assume that when you're on television, you're sorted, but this has been financially catastrophic," Kate revealed, breaking down the stereotype of wealthy television personalities being immune to such struggles.
Her courageous decision to speak openly about both the emotional and financial impact of long-term illness provides a powerful voice for thousands of families facing similar silent battles across Britain.
