I’m painfully aware that Derek would have wanted to tell his own story – and one day he still may. In this book (edited extracts of which are being serialised here), I have tried to do him – and all those who love him – justice. The help I have received from his brilliant team of doctors and specialists, and from people everywhere, has kept me going. By sharing this with you, I pray that it is in some way useful in tackling the challenges in your life. We all have our own Covid stories. This is mine.
As December 31 faded into 2020, Derek and I raised a glass to each other. ‘This is going to be your year, darling,’ he said. ‘Move over, Ant and Dec! You’re not winning TV Presenter of the Year – my Kate is.’