Kate Garraway has told fans that the 'struggles go on' as she shared how her husband returned to hospital after witnessing her be awarded with her MBE by the Prince of Wales. The Good Morning Britain presenter was recognised in the 2022 New Year Honours for her services to broadcasting, journalism and charity.
And she finally received the award from Prince William last week with Derek, whose body has been severely damaged after contracting Covid in March 2020, watching proudly from a wheelchair nearby with his nurse, Jake, and Kate's mum and dad Gordon and Marilyn.
During her return to GMB after collecting her MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, Kate shared how Derek "burst into tears" as he watched her collect her award. "The lovely thing was Prince William said 'how's Derek' and I said 'here's here!'" Kate shared on the show.
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"So we turned and saw and then obviously Derek was very tearful and then spoke about Jake [Derek's carer] and gave Jake a wave as well. Prince William said he wanted to go over but he's not allowed to leave the rug. There's a very fancy red and gold carpet that he stands on."
After taking some time to reflect on the momentous occasion, Kate took to Instagram on Sunday (July 2) where she reflected on her incredible honour but also the reality of life with Derek's ill health carrying on, sharing how he was in hospital before and after the special occasion.
"Well what a week, that started with Derek in hospital and ended with Derek in hospital, but with this extraordinary day in the middle," the broadcaster shared. "I am so incredibly moved and humbled by the whole experience. So many of you have sent so many lovely messages , including the lady who stopped her car a few minutes ago outside our house to say 'I know what you’re going through, and I know how much that moment meant and I am a nurse.'
"It was so wonderful to see Derek’s determination to be there., so kind of the Prince of Wales, to make it special for him & to recognise the work of Jake our incredible carer, who represents all those who make Derek’s daily life possible, and of course my long-suffering, Mum and Dad!
"It was also so humbling to meet all the others, much more deserving than myself, who were there to receive their honours. The Prince of Wales managed to make every single one of them feel as special as they are."
Continuing to share how reality continues for her and her family, Kate added: "Tomorrow Derek is back in hospital and of course the daily struggles go on - but the fact that he was able to be part of Wednesday is to be treasured & can’t thank everyone in the @NHS and all around him who love him for making it possible.
"I have so many thanks to give but I must make sure I thank @lisaredmanltd for the loan of my “fit for a king dress” & @missbsmillinery for its matching hat.!! Love to you all and happy Sunday."
And the comments were quickly flooded with supportive messages. @puppyone_ said: "You so deserve this … your an inspiration and Look how proud Derek is of you.." @borinatoluciana wrote: "Congratulations Kate, it's such a well deserved recognition! It's so wonderful to see the smile and pride on your beloved Derek's face. You both clearly share a beautiful, and unconditional Love!"
@pinerclaire commented: "You are amazing Kate xxxx a wonderful wife and mother trying endlessly to juggle work and home life , incredible." @albellamy2018 replied: "So amazing what you do every day. Love the awareness you raise for care/ caring/ Carer’s. Well done and thank you." @jennylouisewicks added: "Congratulations Kate, you are an inspiration to so many and yet remain grounded and relatable which means so much. Love to you and your beautiful family."
