Kate Garraway admits her first Christmas without late husband Derek Draper will be ‘difficult’ but shares hopes she’ll ‘create new memories’ with children Darcey, 18, and Billy, 15

Kate Garraway admits her first Christmas without late husband Derek Draper will be 'difficult' but shares hopes she'll 'create new memories' with children Darcey, 18, and Billy, 15

As an ardent follower of Kate Garraway’s journey, I find myself deeply moved by her resilience and strength as she prepares for her first Christmas without her beloved husband Derek. Her words echo the bittersweet melody that life often plays, a symphony of joy and sorrow intertwined in an intricate dance.


Kate Garraway acknowledges that spending her first Christmas without the late Derek Draper will be a challenging experience.

In an open conversation for Woman & Home’s December edition, the presenter of Good Morning Britain, aged 57, expressed that this Christmas may be challenging, yet she is eager to create fresh memories with her kids, Darcey (18) and Billy (15).

56-year-old former political lobbyist, Derek, passed away in January due to complications from COVID-19. This occurred about four years after he first fell sick with the respiratory virus.

He was one of the country’s longest-suffering coronavirus patients and remained in hospital for more than a year, but never fully recovered after the virus left long-lasting damage to his organs. 

Kate admitted the festive period will bring pain – although she intends to cherish new beginnings.

Kate Garraway admits her first Christmas without late husband Derek Draper will be 'difficult' but shares hopes she'll 'create new memories' with children Darcey, 18, and Billy, 15

Kate Garraway admits her first Christmas without late husband Derek Draper will be 'difficult' but shares hopes she'll 'create new memories' with children Darcey, 18, and Billy, 15

This Christmas may prove challenging, for it’s the first of many milestones that often do, but I’ve told the children, “Let’s go with our hearts, try something novel, and create fresh memories,” she expressed.

‘You’ve got to try and let things evolve into new memories, and I’m going to be led by them.’

The beloved character reminisced about the recent holiday seasons prior to Derek’s sad demise, a time that was not easy because of his health issues.

This year marks our initial Christmas without Derek, yet it’s important to acknowledge that the previous four to five Christmas seasons were not easy for us. However, amidst those challenges, we were fortunate to celebrate with Derek by our side.

I expect there might be some emotional episodes today, but I’m optimistic about joyful and fun moments. After all, it’s been challenging times for Darcey and Billy, so I sincerely hope this day brings them relief and happiness. Perhaps they’ll reflect, ‘At least Dad is free from suffering now.’

She didn’t have warm recollections of the delightful Christmas moments the family spent together, such as the trip to Derek’s parents’ home in Chorley – where they would evaluate the charm of every village’s holiday lights as they passed by.

Previously, Kate acknowledged Darcey following her success with A-Level results in August, a period of seven months since the demise of her father, Derek.

Darcey made sure her father remained close by carrying a cherished family photograph, taken before his illness in March 2020, and one of his favorite Panama hats with her.

Kate Garraway admits her first Christmas without late husband Derek Draper will be 'difficult' but shares hopes she'll 'create new memories' with children Darcey, 18, and Billy, 15

On Instagram, Kate showed her followers a video of a teenager’s goodbye, revealing an unframed picture and a hat that Darcey wore at Wimbledon in the backseat of her car parked on the sidewalk outside their residence in north London.

In my own words, I shared this moment with excitement: “Here I am, sending her off into a new chapter! The little one who once needed diapers and bottles is now embarking on her university journey. #universitybound

Over the weekend, just like countless other parents, I found myself packing Jenga pieces into the car, hoping everything would fit. Boy, am I grateful for Victor’s spacious trunk!

She added: ‘Such an emotional moment on so many levels & boy is the house quiet. But Darcey we couldn’t be prouder of you starting this new chapter in your life & know your Dad is with you all the way.’ 

Hey there! As a devoted fan, I’m just popping in to echo Charlotte Hawkins’ words: “Good luck Darcey! Have an extraordinary adventure!” Keep shining, my friend! 🌟

TV host Carol Vorderman expressed: ‘Sending my best wishes for a world of joy on her upcoming journey, to that young lady.’

As I, a devoted follower, pen these words, Carol Wright, the mother of Mark, Jessica, and Natalya (once household names on The Only Way Is Essex), expresses her sentiments: ‘Sending all my good wishes for success! Yet, as proud as I am, my heart yearns whenever one of them departs from our home.’

Three individuals have departed already, each departure leaving me in tears and feeling hollow. Another is about to go, and I cling to her tightly, though I know she won’t be far behind since it’s an essential aspect of maturing and gaining independence. Here’s to your university days, Darcy!

In August, Darcey got her results, and Kate, a star on Good Morning Britain and mother of son Billy, acknowledged that Darcey did her best under challenging circumstances the family had faced during the previous year.

In a long message, Kate expressed that Derek would certainly feel honored, as she informed everyone they had gone to his gravesite to let him know about the achievements of their daughter.

On Instagram, she posted: ‘Cheers to everyone receiving their A-Level results this week! A tremendous accomplishment! If you feel let down by your results, remember not to despair – you’ve reached the finish line, and life has a knack for finding its best path for you.’

On Derek’s birthday this year, Darcey received the outcome of yet another first for her – it wasn’t quite what we anticipated, but she surpassed our expectations remarkably well considering the situation at hand.

I am as proud as can be of her, and I know her father would feel the same. Before she headed out to celebrate with friends, we paid a visit to her father’s grave to share the news with him.

She added: ‘I’m at home & just noticed the roses I planted with @itv @loveyourgarden especially for derek so we could wheel him out to enjoy the fragrance have suddenly burst into bloom! . They haven’t flowered all summer. 

“I’m really savoring the wonderful blend of mint and tea, while raising a toast to Derek – my dear, we did it! Your daughter is moving forward in life, thanks to your love and guidance. Though you may not be physically present, you will live on through her.

‘Love to all & #happysaturday everyone!!!!’

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2024-10-19 03:49

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