Veteran broadcaster Eamonn Holmes has opened up with painful honesty about the devastating toll his health problems have taken, revealing that he can no longer lift himself up without the help of carers.
The 66-year-old TV presenter has been battling severe mobility issues for several years following a series of injuries and surgeries that dramatically changed his life. His health struggles began in 2021 when he dislocated his pelvis, suffering three slipped discs that triggered ongoing complications.
During his recovery from surgery, the situation worsened when he suffered a serious fall at the former family home he once shared with his ex-wife Ruth Langsford, leaving him with a broken shoulder.
Now largely immobile and relying on a wheelchair, the father-of-four has spoken candidly about the daily challenges he faces.
Appearing on the Session 7 podcast, Eamonn said he is still coming to terms with the dramatic changes to his body. He admitted: “I’m sick. I’m in a wheelchair. That’s been horrendous to deal with for two years. People can look at me sitting here talking and think nothing is wrong, but the reality is I can’t get up.”
The former This Morning host explained that he now depends on carers throughout the day to help him manage basic routines. However, once he is seated, he can still carry out many activities on his own.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Eamonn said the experience had given him a powerful new perspective on life, noting that “your health really is your wealth.” He also acknowledged that society often struggles to know how to respond to people living with disabilities.
In a previous interview with Sunday World, he revealed just how much his life has changed. He explained that carers now help him with daily tasks, including getting dressed in the morning, preparing food and helping him at night.
Eamonn also disclosed that he is undergoing experimental medical treatments involving spinal injections, which doctors hope may help restore function in his spine and legs.
He said he is waiting to see whether the treatment will work, describing the situation as the most difficult period he has ever faced. Despite the uncertainty, he insisted he continues to fight through it and remains determined to keep going.
While Eamonn confronts the challenges of his health, his former partner Ruth Langsford has also been navigating a difficult chapter of her own following their separation.
The couple, who share their son Jack, ended their 14-year marriage in May 2024.
Speaking on BBC Radio 2 with Rylan Clark, Ruth revealed she sought counselling after the split and described it as a turning point in her recovery.
She admitted she initially resisted the idea, believing therapy would only confirm she was feeling sad. But after encouragement from a friend, she eventually decided to try it and discovered it helped her view her situation differently.
Ruth explained that her counsellor encouraged her to shift her focus and find hope again during an emotionally dark period.
Recalling the advice that stayed with her the most, she said the counsellor told her: “Find your light.”
