Emma Willis has opened up about a shocking heart diagnosis that transformed her parenting style. In January 2022, she learned about a significant health issue she had unknowingly lived with for nearly five decades.
Discovering the Heart Condition
During a routine MRI scan, it was revealed that Emma had “an enlarged heart on one side,” prompting a referral to a cardiologist. The diagnosis uncovered a hole in her heart that she had been unaware of until then.
Facing the Diagnosis
Emma shared her experience in a video posted on Instagram. She expressed the overwhelming feelings she had upon discovering her condition. “I lived for 48 years not knowing that anything was wrong,” she said. The diagnosis raised a flood of questions, all of which her specialist addressed.
- Requirement for surgery: Emma was advised that surgery was essential to prevent future complications.
- Impact on life perspective: The alarming news immediately shifted her outlook on life.
Transforming Parenting Approach
The revelation of her heart condition urged Emma to become more engaged with her children. She described her emotional state leading up to the surgery as one of fear, which motivated her to be “the most present” mother possible.
- Increased presence: Emma committed to fulfilling her children’s requests, aiming to create joyful memories.
- Post-surgery mindset: The experience encouraged her to remain cheerful and attentive to her family’s needs.
Awareness Campaign with the British Heart Foundation
Emma’s story is part of a broader campaign in collaboration with the British Heart Foundation. The organization aims to raise awareness about heart conditions through real-life narratives.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Benches | Placed around the country to foster discussions about cardiovascular health. |
Each bench symbolizes a powerful story, encouraging those affected by heart conditions to share their experiences.
Through her partnership with the British Heart Foundation, Emma hopes to inspire others facing similar health challenges. Her journey underscores the importance of awareness and the impact a diagnosis can have on personal relationships and parenting.
