Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university – after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

As I read this heartwarming story, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of emotions that Kate, a mother and ITV star, is going through. Losing her partner Derek after four years of battling illness must have been incredibly difficult, yet she finds strength in celebrating her daughter Darcey‘s achievements.


On Monday, Kate Garraway bid farewell to her daughter Darcey, who was gearing up for her initial year at college.

On Good Morning Britain, the host assisted her oldest child in packing their possessions into cardboard containers, which were then placed in the trunk of her vehicle.

57-year-old Kate had earlier acknowledged 18-year-old Darcey following the announcement of her A-Level grades in August, a period of seven months since the passing of her father, Derek Draper.

56-year-old former lobbyist Draper passed away in January due to complications related to COVID-19, approximately four years after he contracted the respiratory illness.

He was one of the country’s longest-suffering coronavirus patients after being in hospital but never fully recovered after the virus left long-lasting damage to his organs and meant he needed round-the-clock care.

Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

Darcey made sure she had something of her father with her, carrying a family photograph taken prior to his fall ill in March 2020, as well as one of his preferred Panama hats.

On Instagram, Kate publicly shared a video that captured the teenager’s farewell moment, revealing an uncased photograph and various headgear in the back seat of her parked car, which was situated on the curb outside their residence in north London.

“I proudly marked this moment with the caption: ‘With a swift start, she embarked on her journey!’ The tiny, vulnerable infant we welcomed home from the hospital 18 years ago is now off to university!

Over the weekend, much like countless other parents, I found myself attempting to fit everything into the car, just as one does with Jenga – quite an ordeal indeed! But thankfully, my trusty Victor has a roomy trunk to accommodate all our belongings!

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.’ 

In response to the post, Charlotte Hawkins, a co-host on Good Morning Britain, wished Darcey: ‘I hope you have a fantastic trip! Best wishes for your day!’

TV host Carol Vorderman expressed: ‘I wish your daughter every bit of joy as she embarks on her new journey.’

Meanwhile Carol Wright – mother of former The Only Way Is Essex stars Mark and Jessica, and young model Natalya – wrote: ‘Wishing her all the luck in the world. But as much as your proud your heart aches from when one of them leave your home. 

Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

I’ve already lost three people, and each departure has left me feeling tearful and hollow. One more is on the way, and although I’m clinging to her with all my strength, I know she won’t be around much longer as it’s a part of maturing and gaining independence. Best wishes for university life, Darcy!

Darcey got her results in August, and Good Morning Britain personality Kate, who is a mother to 14-year-old Billy, acknowledged that her daughter had done as well as she could following a tough period for their family.

In a long message, Kate expressed that Derek would undoubtedly feel honored, and she disclosed that they paid a visit to his gravesite to tell him about their daughter’s achievements.

On Instagram, she posted: ‘Kudos to everyone receiving their A-level grades this week – a massive accomplishment! If you’re not happy with your results, don’t worry, remember that life tends to work things out for the best, and you’ve made it through to the end.’

On Derek’s birthday this year, Darcey received her results from yet another first-time achievement. Despite not achieving what she had hoped for, she exceeded our lowest expectations given the current situation.

Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper
Kate Garraway bids an emotional farewell to daughter Darcey, 18, as she leaves home for university - after packing a poignant reminder of late dad Derek Draper

As a lifestyle expert, I can’t express enough pride in her accomplishments and I firmly believe that her dad would feel the same. Before she stepped out to enjoy a well-deserved night with friends, we took a moment at his gravesite to share the news – a heartfelt tribute to remember him by.

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 savoring the delightful blend of mint and fragrance, raising a cup of tea to Derek – dearest one, we did it! Your daughter is embarking on her next life phase, thanks to your love and guidance. In her journey, you will live on.

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

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2024-09-16 15:34

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