Fiona Phillips opens up about Alzheimer's diagnosis at 62: ‘It's heartbreaking’
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It is an event most of us can't even fathom—receiving a diagnosis that alters our life's course. For the shining light of British television screens, Fiona Phillips, the moment arrived with a devastating Alzheimer's diagnosis at 62.
In her interview with the Mirror, Fiona, an ever-cherished presenter and columnist, shared the gut-wrenching reality of her diagnosis. Fans, who have journeyed along her illustrious career for the past two decades, were left reeling.
Fiona's career started with independent radio, only for her to break into the PR ranks before gracing TV screens with her presence on GMTV for over a decade from 1997.
She also won hearts with her dynamic dance performance in 2005 on BBC's beloved show Strictly Come Dancing.
Besides her acclaim as a TV presenter, Fiona is also an Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, a role she adopted due to her personal and family experiences with this debilitating disease.
In an emotional reveal, Fiona said, 'This disease has savaged my family, and now it has turned to me. And all over the country, there are people of all different ages whose lives are being affected by it—it's heartbreaking.'
'I just hope I can help find a cure to make things better for others in the future.'
For most individuals affected by Alzheimer's, particularly those with the late-onset form, symptoms typically emerge when they reach their mid-60s or beyond. However, in cases where the disease manifests before age 65, it is classified as early-onset Alzheimer's.
Although rare, this type of Alzheimer's can commence as early as a person's 30s.
This highlights a critical need: more awareness around Alzheimer's and its early signs, like difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, changes in mood, and potential treatments.
While a cure for Alzheimer's remains elusive, considerable progress has been made to slow the progression of the disease. Treatments aim to manage cognitive symptoms, improve quality of life, and delay institutional care.
Fiona is contributing to this cause, taking part in clinical trials at University College Hospital in London that could revolutionise future treatment options.
Credit: This Morning.
Known for her memorable interviews and infectious laughter that lit up morning TV, Fiona pushed through the boundaries of the TV industry and imprinted her personality on the hearts of millions.
Over the years, Phillips has consistently delivered daily and weekly reports, delving into numerous significant news stories, including the heartbreaking demise of Diana, Princess of Wales. She has also had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry's most prominent stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Clint Eastwood, Brad Pitt, and Mel Gibson, among other notable names.
As the Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, Fiona tirelessly worked to increase awareness around dementia, a mission that has only gained more momentum since her diagnosis. She has been instrumental in campaigns highlighting the disease's reality, shedding light on the struggle of those living with Alzheimer's and pointing to the urgent need for more research, better treatments, and improved care.
Kate Lee, Chief Executive at Alzheimer's Society, lauded Fiona for her decision. She said, 'Our thoughts are with our ambassador Fiona Phillips and her family following the announcement that she's living with dementia.'
'Fiona has frequently spoken out about her parents' experiences of dementia, and her support of Alzheimer's Society has been hugely impactful and greatly appreciated. Sharing such personal news raises much-needed awareness of dementia, and we are extremely grateful to Fiona.'
'We are here to offer our support to Fiona and her family and to everyone affected by dementia,' Lee went on to say.
Fiona's revelation has sparked numerous messages of support, including one from Hilary Evans, CEO of Alzheimer's Research UK.
She said, 'We're sending our love and support to Fiona and her family following her announcement that she's living with Alzheimer's disease. It takes such courage to go public with a diagnosis, and Fiona knows better than most just how much good that can do.'
'Awareness is vital, and Fiona's bravery will help untold people who are going through their own dementia journeys. We're so grateful to Fiona for standing with us in our mission.'
In Australia, Alzheimer's disease accounts for nearly 7 out of 10 cases of dementia. It affects approximately 1 in 10 Australians aged 65 and older, and this number rises to 3 in 10 among Australians aged 85 and above. Although the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease increases with age, it's important to note that it is not a natural aspect of the ageing process.
Yet, as Fiona's story points out, battling Alzheimer's is not only about facing personal challenges. It's also about confronting the disease as a community and lending support where needed.
Credit: Dementia Australia.
For anyone affected by dementia or Alzheimer's, remember, you are not alone. Reach out to support groups such as The National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500), Alzheimer's Association Australia, and other online forums with resources and counselling sessions to help better understand and cope with the disease.
As we stand by Fiona and others facing similar battles, let's remember the power of a collective voice in challenging adversity. It's not only about finding an effective cure but also about learning, adapting, supporting, and forging forward together. The fight against Alzheimer's disease continues, and every voice, every step counts.
What are your thoughts on this story, members? Let us know in the comments below.
In her interview with the Mirror, Fiona, an ever-cherished presenter and columnist, shared the gut-wrenching reality of her diagnosis. Fans, who have journeyed along her illustrious career for the past two decades, were left reeling.
Fiona's career started with independent radio, only for her to break into the PR ranks before gracing TV screens with her presence on GMTV for over a decade from 1997.
She also won hearts with her dynamic dance performance in 2005 on BBC's beloved show Strictly Come Dancing.
TV presenter Fiona Phillips has revealed she has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 62. Credit: YouTube/My TV Time Machine.
Besides her acclaim as a TV presenter, Fiona is also an Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, a role she adopted due to her personal and family experiences with this debilitating disease.
In an emotional reveal, Fiona said, 'This disease has savaged my family, and now it has turned to me. And all over the country, there are people of all different ages whose lives are being affected by it—it's heartbreaking.'
'I just hope I can help find a cure to make things better for others in the future.'
For most individuals affected by Alzheimer's, particularly those with the late-onset form, symptoms typically emerge when they reach their mid-60s or beyond. However, in cases where the disease manifests before age 65, it is classified as early-onset Alzheimer's.
Although rare, this type of Alzheimer's can commence as early as a person's 30s.
This highlights a critical need: more awareness around Alzheimer's and its early signs, like difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, changes in mood, and potential treatments.
While a cure for Alzheimer's remains elusive, considerable progress has been made to slow the progression of the disease. Treatments aim to manage cognitive symptoms, improve quality of life, and delay institutional care.
Fiona is contributing to this cause, taking part in clinical trials at University College Hospital in London that could revolutionise future treatment options.
Credit: This Morning.
Known for her memorable interviews and infectious laughter that lit up morning TV, Fiona pushed through the boundaries of the TV industry and imprinted her personality on the hearts of millions.
Over the years, Phillips has consistently delivered daily and weekly reports, delving into numerous significant news stories, including the heartbreaking demise of Diana, Princess of Wales. She has also had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry's most prominent stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Clint Eastwood, Brad Pitt, and Mel Gibson, among other notable names.
As the Alzheimer's Society Ambassador, Fiona tirelessly worked to increase awareness around dementia, a mission that has only gained more momentum since her diagnosis. She has been instrumental in campaigns highlighting the disease's reality, shedding light on the struggle of those living with Alzheimer's and pointing to the urgent need for more research, better treatments, and improved care.
Kate Lee, Chief Executive at Alzheimer's Society, lauded Fiona for her decision. She said, 'Our thoughts are with our ambassador Fiona Phillips and her family following the announcement that she's living with dementia.'
'Fiona has frequently spoken out about her parents' experiences of dementia, and her support of Alzheimer's Society has been hugely impactful and greatly appreciated. Sharing such personal news raises much-needed awareness of dementia, and we are extremely grateful to Fiona.'
'We are here to offer our support to Fiona and her family and to everyone affected by dementia,' Lee went on to say.
Fiona's revelation has sparked numerous messages of support, including one from Hilary Evans, CEO of Alzheimer's Research UK.
She said, 'We're sending our love and support to Fiona and her family following her announcement that she's living with Alzheimer's disease. It takes such courage to go public with a diagnosis, and Fiona knows better than most just how much good that can do.'
'Awareness is vital, and Fiona's bravery will help untold people who are going through their own dementia journeys. We're so grateful to Fiona for standing with us in our mission.'
In Australia, Alzheimer's disease accounts for nearly 7 out of 10 cases of dementia. It affects approximately 1 in 10 Australians aged 65 and older, and this number rises to 3 in 10 among Australians aged 85 and above. Although the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease increases with age, it's important to note that it is not a natural aspect of the ageing process.
Yet, as Fiona's story points out, battling Alzheimer's is not only about facing personal challenges. It's also about confronting the disease as a community and lending support where needed.
Credit: Dementia Australia.
For anyone affected by dementia or Alzheimer's, remember, you are not alone. Reach out to support groups such as The National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500), Alzheimer's Association Australia, and other online forums with resources and counselling sessions to help better understand and cope with the disease.
As we stand by Fiona and others facing similar battles, let's remember the power of a collective voice in challenging adversity. It's not only about finding an effective cure but also about learning, adapting, supporting, and forging forward together. The fight against Alzheimer's disease continues, and every voice, every step counts.
What are your thoughts on this story, members? Let us know in the comments below.
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