Emma Willis Opens Up About Undergoing Heart Surgery

Strategic Insights -

TV presenter Emma Willis has shared her emotional story of being diagnosed with congenital heart disease, a condition she had unknowingly lived with for her entire life. Willis, 49, underwent heart surgery after doctors discovered a hole in her heart while examining her for high cholesterol. In a candid interview on This Morning, she recalled her initial panic and the psychological adjustment she had to make after the surgery.

Key Takeaways:

  • Emma Willis, 49, was diagnosed with congenital heart disease, a condition that affects almost one in 100 babies born in the UK (NHS).
  • The condition was discovered during a cardiologist appointment for high cholesterol, and Willis underwent heart surgery at Royal Brompton Hospital in London.
  • Willis experienced multiple check-ups before being diagnosed, including being told she had an enlarged heart.
  • Symptoms of congenital heart disease include breathlessness, chest pains, tiredness, fainting during exercise, a blue tinge to the skin or lips, and swelling in various body parts.
  • Willis admitted that the diagnosis was emotionally challenging and that she had to make a significant psychological adjustment after the surgery.
  • Her surgeon, Ee Ling Hen, explained that the condition can be asymptomatic in some people but has differing impacts on others due to varying defect sizes.

Statistics:

  • Almost one in 100 babies born in the UK are affected by congenital heart disease (NHS).
  • 49 - age of Emma Willis at the time of diagnosis.
  • 1 in 100 - the approximate frequency of congenital heart disease in newborns.

Sources:

  • NHS (no specific date mentioned)
  • Willis, E. (2023, May). [Source is a personal statement to The Sun, exact date not provided]
  • Interview with Emma Willis and her surgeon Ee Ling Hen on This Morning (no specific date mentioned)