Martin Frizell, husband of former TV presenter Fiona Phillips, has shared a rare photograph of the 65-year-old as she continues to live with Alzheimer's disease. The image, posted on Instagram, shows Phillips enjoying an ice cream while out for a walk in the London sunshine.
Phillips was diagnosed with Alzheimer's four years ago. In his post, Frizell, who is currently on a Tartan Noir Tour in Scotland, thanked fans for their kind comments and inquiries about his wife. He wrote: 'Very touched by many nice comments from folk asking about Fiona whilst I’m on our short Tartan Noir Scottish tour so here’s a picture of what she’s up to in my absence - she’s changed Magnum flavours!'
Frizell has been candid about the challenges of caring for Phillips, admitting on the programme 'Lorraine' that he struggles with 'slipping into a depression' as he witnesses the disease's progression. He described it as a 'loss of dignity' for the once 'dynamic, bubbly' presenter. He also expressed guilt about returning to work on his podcast, which he calls his 'respite'.
Frizell has called for improved government policy on Alzheimer's support, urging Health Secretary Wes Streeting to reinstate diagnosis targets. He noted that music, particularly Rod Stewart, has been a comfort for Phillips, who can still recall song lyrics.
Fans responded warmly to the photo, with one commenting: 'Beautiful photo, lovely to see she still likes to get out and about and enjoying the simple things of life. Sunshine and a magnum.' Another wrote: 'Lovely Fiona! What a caring fella you are Martin. My mom has this disease, I wish they'd find a cure!'
