Former news anchor opens up about life-changing health diagnosis
Well-known British broadcaster **Alastair Stewart** shares his experience with vascular dementia diagnosis. His story shows how family support and staying active helps manage the condition
In a peaceful Hampshire village Alastair Stewart spends his mornings tending to chickens in his farmhouse yard. The ex-ITN broadcaster whose career spanned over four-decades now faces a different kind of daily routine
Their 26-acre property (which theyve owned since mid-90s) is filled with rescued animals: ducks chickens donkeys and dogs creating a warm family atmosphere. Stewart and his wife Sally share this space with frequent visits from their four grown-up children and grand-kids
The diagnosis came bout two years ago when Stewart started showing unusual signs - he couldnt tie his shoes; struggled with time-telling and had trouble with basic tasks. An MRI scan revealed several small strokes leading to vascular dementia. “My first reaction was terror at those two words: stroke and dementia‚“ he recalls
Dont panic
His wife Sally aged 71 has become his main support system: handling driving duties pre-tying his ties and managing daily schedules. Their partnership which started at Southern Television has grown stronger through this challenge; though she admits its not always easy: “Any carer who says otherwise is lying“
- Stopped smoking after 40-years
- Barely drinks alcohol now
- Takes daily walks with dogs
- Maintains social connections
- Keeps up with current events
Stewart continues contributing to GB News and speaks for Alzheimers Research UK. Despite challenges he stays engaged with life: “Its demeaning but theres no point in self-pity. You need to keep going“
