Kate Garraway salutes NHS in final Clap for Carers and shares update on husband Derek Draper's battle with COVID-19

Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway joined her children outside her home for the final Clap for Carers on Thursday (May 29).
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During the 10th and final salute to the NHS, the 53-year-old took to the pavement outside her London home alongside 13-year-old Darcey and Billy, 11.

Posting a video of the applause on Instagram, Kate revealed that she had been fighting back tears thinking about her husband Derek, who remains in intensive care with COVID-19.

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She said: "It's been such a source of weekly comfort for them and me, and I must admit I felt the tears come tonight to think it’s coming to an end while our fear for Derek goes on.

Kate Garraway and her children Darcey and Billy have been showing their support for the NHS by joining neighbours for Clap the Carers each week. Pic credit: Kate GarrawayKate Garraway and her children Darcey and Billy have been showing their support for the NHS by joining neighbours for Clap the Carers each week. Pic credit: Kate Garraway
Kate Garraway and her children Darcey and Billy have been showing their support for the NHS by joining neighbours for Clap the Carers each week. Pic credit: Kate Garraway

"But even if we don’t clap next Thursday it won’t diminish my eternal thanks to all in the #NHS.

"They are keeping Derek alive and everyone of them is fighting as hard as Derek is to give us the chance to be reunited.

"Hope has to keep us all going doesn’t it? I am having to find new ways of staying strong everyday for Darcey & Billy, as I know Derek would want me to.

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"It’s not easy but when I think of how hard Derek is fighting and the bravery of all in the #NHS, it helps."

Derek Draper, from Chorley, has been in hospital since late March when he was admitted with a severe case of COVID-19.

In late April, she revealed that Derek had been put into an induced coma after his condition deteriorated. He remains in a serious condition.

Since then, Kate has been providing regular updates via her social media accounts on her husband's condition.

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Last week, the presenter said she was encouraged to see Britain making progress in its battle with the virus, but admitted that her family's struggle is far from over.

"It's so wonderful to see little green shoots of hope that this dreadful disease is easing," said Kate.

"Hopefully soon we might all be able to see each other again and hug our nearest and dearest.

"But the journey for me and my family seems to be far from over.

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"Everyday my heart sinks as I learn new and devastating ways this virus has more battles for Derek to fight.

"But he is still HERE and so there is still hope."

Derek, 52, attended Southlands High School, where he graduated in 1984, before studying at Runshaw College in Leyland.

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