FAMILY STRUGGLE
Ben Shephard reveals he has family members who are ‘very ill’ amid coronavirus pandemic
GOOD Morning Britain host Ben Shephard has revealed he has family members who are "very ill" amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The 45-year-old opened up on his family struggles live on air today.
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Ben said: "I've got family members who are very ill at the moment as well.
"And people that I know and friends who have lost friends and family. It doesn't get any less painful."
It comes one week after the television presenter gave an emotional update on co-star Kate Garraway's husband Derek Draper as he battles the deadly virus.
Ben told viewers: "I’m afraid it remains an excruciatingly worrying time.
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"The NHS team who have been working on him have all been extraordinary and I know it’s only their professionalism, dedication and bravery that has kept Derek with us so far. Thank you alone doesn't seem enough."
Kate's husband Derek was taken to hospital earlier this month, where he tested positive for coronavirus.
The mum-of-two gave an update on his health last night.
She wrote on Instagram: "From the bottom of my heart a billion thank yous to the extraordinary #nhsworkers whose skills, dedication and downright guts in the face of so much personal risk, are keeping my Derek alive, just as they are doing for thousands of covid patients.
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Yesterday, we backed a proposal by Lord Ashcroft to honour our health heroes with the gallantry gong given for acts of bravery that did not take place in battle.
A No10 spokesman said: “The NHS is doing a fantastic job and the nation will want to find a way to say thank you when we have defeated this virus.”
SAS hero Andy McNab added: “The award of a George Cross would show an emotional appreciation.”
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“I’m afraid he is still in a deeply critical condition, but he is still here, which means there is hope.
“Sending so much love and support to the thousands who have had that hope for their loved ones stolen by this hideous disease. You are not alone and I hope that helps give you strength to withstand the torture of grief.
“Thank you, too, to my own little band of “key workers”, the neighbours who let off fireworks tonight for the #nhs, gave the Easter bunny a helping hand to make life feel a bit more normal for Darcey & Billy, those who have dropped off food, and friends family and all of you who have sent messages of love and support. It’s such a comfort. We must all stand together. #clapthecarers #love #hope.”
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Kate Garraway's husband Derek still in 'deeply critical condition' after weeks in intensive care amid coronavirus battle
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