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Fiona Phillips’ husband Martin Frizell gives heartbreaking insight into daily routine after quitting high-powered ITV job to care for Alzheimer’s-stricken wife, 64 – including washing and dressing star and brushing her teeth

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Martin Frizell shares insights about the transformation he’s experienced, shifting from being a prominent ITV executive to caring for his wife, Fiona Phillips, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

My Life with Alzheimer’s,” was published exclusively in the Mail.

In this book, the married couple (who tied the knot in 1997 and have two kids together) talk about how their life has been significantly impacted by her diagnosis. Martin shares his struggles and the measures he takes to care for her, who became well-known as a GMTV presenter in the ’90s.

Martin, aged 66, had a long-standing career in ITV, stretching across several morning programs such as GMTV, This Morning, and Loose Women. However, due to Fiona’s illness, he decided to retire last year.

Martin, who has stepped away from his busy career, in his straightforward terms, shared that Fiona requires significant assistance. This aid encompasses helping her bathe, brush her teeth, dress, and most importantly, ensuring she feels as secure and comfortable as possible.

As I pen this down on January 2025, it’s apparent that Fiona requires significant assistance. At present, she struggles with tasks like showering and brushing her teeth, although she has the physical capability, she currently lacks the mental capacity to remember the steps involved.

As a devoted admirer, I find myself taking on the role of Fiona’s personal hair stylist. You see, she’s blissfully unaware of the intricacies involved in proper hair care. It’s my responsibility to choose the right shampoo and conditioner for her, ensuring her hair is neither too dry nor too wet. I also make sure she understands the importance of rinsing out the soap suds afterwards, ensuring a perfect, shiny finish!

Most evenings, I’d remind us both, “It’s time to clean our teeth before sleep.” Then, I’d squeeze toothpaste onto the toothbrush and pass it to her.

She remains quite headstrong and dislikes the routine of tooth-brushing or any form of instruction, so she tends to resist these situations.

He explained that he couldn’t confront her objections due to the risk of falling ill, stating instead: ‘However, it must be done this way, as the most devastating outcome would be for her to develop some sort of tooth infection during a weakened state.’

Fiona manages to get her clothes on, but she often wears them incorrectly, which means that Martin has to help her with dressing, as well as other tasks.

Although she can get her clothes on by herself, she often struggles with getting dressed properly, so she needs assistance with dressing.

In the mornings, I often arrange her outfits, yet she seems drawn to specific pieces of clothing, preferring to wear them repeatedly.

Fiona initially encountered Martin while both were employed at GMTV; she was a presenter, and he held the position of chief correspondent. A few short weeks into their relationship, Martin proposed to her. The two then decided to marry, tying the knot in Las Vegas in 1997.

A year ago, he announced his resignation as the editor of ITV’s This Morning, a position he held for ten years, so that he could spend more time with his wife who is battling Alzheimer’s disease.

In his forthcoming memoir, Martin expresses a regret that Fiona was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s instead of cancer.

Expressing his sentiments regarding Fiona’s condition, he acknowledged: ‘To be completely straightforward, I would have preferred if Fiona had been diagnosed with cancer rather than this.’

It’s surprising to note this, but if it were the case, she could potentially access a cure, along with a clear treatment plan and numerous resources for support and care. Regrettably, such options are not available for Alzheimer’s disease.

Just as it’s rare to find humorous or motivational TikTok clips or high-fashion shoots featuring happy, healthy individuals who have overcome their illnesses and are currently in remission, there aren’t many instances of such content.

Upon receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, individuals are generally left to manage on their own, as there aren’t many additional interventions available. This leaves them to navigate the challenges on their own.

Gradually, it consumes everything. Over time, even the brightest, shiniest stars like Fiona – shining as they do – will eventually fade away…

Over time, I’ve realized the profound impact my health has on our family’s stability. To ensure our household continues standing strong, it’s crucial I maintain good health – all for the love and care of Fiona.

Remember When: My Life With Alzheimer’s, by Fiona Phillips will be published on July 17 

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2025-07-08 11:05

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