Popular BBC and ITV presenter John Stapleton has shared that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease
The journalist, who is well known for fronting programmes like Newsnight, Panorama, GMTV and Daybreak, shared the heartbreaking news on Monday's Morning Live in a new documentary.
BBC and ITV presenter John Stapleton shares Parkinon's diagnosis
Broadcaster @JohnStapletonTV opens up about being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease alongside his son, Scam Interceptors' @staplenick.
— BBC Morning Live (@BBCMorningLive) October 21, 2024
They explore how to navigate difficult conversations you should have with loved ones. To watch it in full, click here:https://t.co/0pzda9U67m pic.twitter.com/nmSypyOKX3
Discussing the diagnosis alongside his son, BBC presenter Nick Stapleton, he said: “Speaking is how I’ve earned my living for the best part of 50 years, and it’s very frustrating sometimes, particularly if people are constantly saying to you, ‘sorry, what did you say?’
“And you have to repeat yourself time and time and time again.
“I’m fairly pragmatic about the prospect of this getting worse. I try to remain positive, because what’s the point of not being [positive].”
In the new film, John and his son Nick delve into the challenges facing the family after the diagnosis.
🟠 It's great to be back!!!! On today's show:
— BBC Morning Live (@BBCMorningLive) October 21, 2024
🩺 @JohnStapletonTV shares his Parkinson's diagnosis
🏦 How to report bank scams
🏡 Last chance autumn garden jobs @MarkLaneTV
👩👧👧 @GethincJones @HelenSkelton
📺 9.30am @BBCOne or watch here:
👉 https://t.co/avbt1iM5Oa pic.twitter.com/9hde1dd5h9
Nick emphasised how it was still "early days for us" and that John remains "fairly independent" for now.
He said: “But nonetheless I want to start these conversations now, to get some potentially difficult topics out in the open and make it easier for later on.”
John reflected on his mother's battle with the condition and noted that he is now facing some of the same challenges in terms of mobility.
He said one of the main issues facing her was her "inability to do things like open a can of beans or peel a potato" - tasks he is now struggling with.
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