Kate Garraway expresses emotions on Derek Draper’s death anniversary

Kate Garraway Speaks Out on the Heart-Wrenching First Anniversary of Derek Draper’s Passing

On January 3, 2025, Kate Garraway, the beloved presenter of Good Morning Britain, delivered a deeply emotional statement reflecting on the first anniversary of her husband Derek Draper’s death. Derek succumbed to complications related to Covid-19 last January, leaving behind a profound impact on Kate and their family.

During an emotional segment on the show, Kate, 57, shared her thoughts about Derek’s passing and the ongoing challenges she faces in the aftermath. She poignantly noted the significance of this date, emphasizing that it holds a unique meaning for her. “I’m thinking about the situation with Derek,” she expressed, highlighting the weight of the anniversary on her heart.

The broadcaster, who has openly discussed her struggles with “excessive and unpayable debt,” used the occasion to advocate for reform in adult social care. She elaborated on the financial burden she endured while caring for Derek, revealing that she is currently grappling with a staggering debt of approximately £800,000 due to his medical care.

In a conversation about social care reform with Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Kate commented, “It actually happens to be the anniversary of his death, the one year anniversary of his death today, which is a day only relevant to me. Over the last few weeks, the family and I have been talking about the challenges we faced this time last year, and one of the overriding ones was dealing with the funding of care at the time of his death.”

Despite enjoying a successful career, Kate admitted that the costs associated with Derek’s health care have been crippling. She revealed that she had to withdraw funds from her pension to cover his medical bills. Reports indicate that three companies co-owned with Derek are now facing debts totaling £2 million.

Kate previously disclosed that her monthly expenses for Derek’s care reached an astonishing £16,000, surpassing her salary from the daytime television show. “I am in debt. I can’t earn enough money to cover my debt because I am managing Derek’s care,” she shared before his passing, highlighting the endless challenges she faces.

In recent updates, it was revealed that she plans to shut down some businesses she ran with Derek in light of overwhelming debts. One company, Astra Aspera Ltd, is said to owe nearly £913,370, while others, Countrymouse Media Ltd and Fulfill Media Ltd, have reportedly closed due to financial strain.

Despite these daunting challenges, Kate remains focused on staying positive for her children, Darcey and Billy. She described her first Christmas without Derek as “the toughest,” yet she made efforts to ensure it was a joyful occasion for her family.

As Kate continues to navigate her grief and financial difficulties, she remains a source of inspiration for many, showing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.