Rochelle Anthony, the businesswoman and salon owner who rose to fame as runner-up on The Apprentice in 2023, has been hospitalised after suffering a suspected stroke. The 36-year-old shared the alarming news from her bed in an A&E ward on Thursday, posting a photo of herself connected to medical apparatus on Instagram.
Symptoms and Immediate Response
In her Instagram post, Anthony wrote: "Dolls, I am in A&E with a suspected stroke." She described her symptoms: "I have no use of my left leg and left arm." She also apologised to clients whose bookings would need to be postponed, saying: "I am so sorry for any clients I need to reschedule. Please bear with me." Anthony concluded by announcing she would take a break from social media while receiving care, asking anyone needing contact to reach her salon instead.
Medical Background
This health emergency follows a severe medical episode in 2024, when Anthony suffered weeks of excruciating pain before doctors discovered two gallstones trapped in her bile duct. The stones were too large to pass naturally and required specialist intervention, despite her having already undergone surgery to remove her gallbladder and 19 gallstones the year before. At the time, she encouraged others to seek medical help if something feels wrong, revealing she had made multiple hospital visits before receiving a diagnosis.
What Is a Stroke?
According to the NHS, a stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is cut off. Typical symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, facial drooping, speech difficulties, and confusion. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Rise to Fame
Anthony shot to prominence after making it to the final of The Apprentice in 2023, where she pitched her hair salon business to Lord Sugar. Although Lord Sugar ultimately chose to back winner Marnie Swindells' boxing gym, Anthony's enterprise flourished after the BBC programme. Clients have travelled from across the UK to her Milton Keynes salon, The Dolls House.
