Celebrity chef drops bombshell about his health battle
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Celebrity chef Rick Stein, known for his seafood expertise and charming television presence, has been candid about his health journey, sparking concern among his fans worldwide.
At 77 years old, Stein has faced a significant health battle that led to a major lifesaving heart operation, which has prompted him to reflect on his life and the time he may have left.
Stein's health issues came to light in 2020 during a trek in the Scottish hills.
He found himself unable to complete the walk due to severe breathlessness, a symptom that had been plaguing him for years.
Upon consulting with doctors, he was diagnosed with a failing aorta, a condition that required immediate attention.
Initially, medication helped manage his symptoms, but by June 2022, the situation had escalated to the point where surgery was unavoidable.
Stein underwent open-heart surgery to replace his aortic valve, a procedure known for its intense recovery period.
Reflecting on his health journey in an interview, Stein shared, 'A bit over a year ago, he (the doctor) said, “You’re going to have to have the op.”'
This made Stein feel like he had 'not got long left'.
He also revealed his father's history of manic depression, hinting at a genetic predisposition that might have influenced his health.
Despite his condition, Stein remained determined to stay positive, largely thanks to the support of his Australian wife, Sarah Burns.
'I’m not manic depressive. I’m not really prone to depression, although all of us go through difficult patches. But what was attractive to me about Sas was that she always looks on the bright side, you know?' he shared.
Stein met his wife, Sarah Burns, during an Australian book tour in the 1990s when she was his publicist. The couple tied the knot in Sydney in 2010, celebrating their union with a lunch at the iconic Icebergs restaurant at Bondi.
Post-surgery, he has noticed a significant improvement in his health, which has left him optimistic.
'Even though at my age and with the normal realities of life I’m not going to last that much longer, I think as long as you’ve got your health and you’re optimistic generally and enjoying your life, you don’t tend to ponder too much about how little life you’ve got left.'
Stein's recent social media posts reflect his upbeat attitude.
He was seen smiling alongside his wife Sarah and friends, fellow chef Neil Perry and his wife Samantha, after dining at Perry’s restaurant Margaret in Double Bay, Sydney.
Stein's culinary journey extends beyond the UK.
He co-owns Rick Stein at Bannister’s restaurants in Mollymook and Port Stephens in Australia with his wife and the head chef.
The Mollymook restaurant opened in 2009, followed by the Port Stephens venue in 2018.
Have you, or anyone you know, experienced going through the same procedure? What was the journey like? Share your story with us in the comments below.
Members, we understand how diagnoses like Stein’s can be tough physically and mentally. Please reach out to services like Beyond Blue and Lifeline Australia when needed. You may also browse this list of other related helplines.
At 77 years old, Stein has faced a significant health battle that led to a major lifesaving heart operation, which has prompted him to reflect on his life and the time he may have left.
Stein's health issues came to light in 2020 during a trek in the Scottish hills.
He found himself unable to complete the walk due to severe breathlessness, a symptom that had been plaguing him for years.
Rick Stein shared updates on his heart’s health. Image source: Rick Stein.
Upon consulting with doctors, he was diagnosed with a failing aorta, a condition that required immediate attention.
Initially, medication helped manage his symptoms, but by June 2022, the situation had escalated to the point where surgery was unavoidable.
Stein underwent open-heart surgery to replace his aortic valve, a procedure known for its intense recovery period.
Reflecting on his health journey in an interview, Stein shared, 'A bit over a year ago, he (the doctor) said, “You’re going to have to have the op.”'
This made Stein feel like he had 'not got long left'.
He also revealed his father's history of manic depression, hinting at a genetic predisposition that might have influenced his health.
Despite his condition, Stein remained determined to stay positive, largely thanks to the support of his Australian wife, Sarah Burns.
'I’m not manic depressive. I’m not really prone to depression, although all of us go through difficult patches. But what was attractive to me about Sas was that she always looks on the bright side, you know?' he shared.
Stein met his wife, Sarah Burns, during an Australian book tour in the 1990s when she was his publicist. The couple tied the knot in Sydney in 2010, celebrating their union with a lunch at the iconic Icebergs restaurant at Bondi.
Post-surgery, he has noticed a significant improvement in his health, which has left him optimistic.
'Even though at my age and with the normal realities of life I’m not going to last that much longer, I think as long as you’ve got your health and you’re optimistic generally and enjoying your life, you don’t tend to ponder too much about how little life you’ve got left.'
Stein's recent social media posts reflect his upbeat attitude.
He was seen smiling alongside his wife Sarah and friends, fellow chef Neil Perry and his wife Samantha, after dining at Perry’s restaurant Margaret in Double Bay, Sydney.
Stein's culinary journey extends beyond the UK.
He co-owns Rick Stein at Bannister’s restaurants in Mollymook and Port Stephens in Australia with his wife and the head chef.
The Mollymook restaurant opened in 2009, followed by the Port Stephens venue in 2018.
Members, we understand how diagnoses like Stein’s can be tough physically and mentally. Please reach out to services like Beyond Blue and Lifeline Australia when needed. You may also browse this list of other related helplines.
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