Television presenter Emma Willis has shared her emotional journey following a diagnosis of a hole in her heart, a condition she was unaware of until April 2025. At 48 years old, Willis underwent keyhole heart surgery at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London to correct the issue. She expressed her shock at the diagnosis, revealing that she had lived her entire life without knowing about the defect.
Diagnosis and Surgical Intervention
In her candid revelations, Willis described the moment she learned about her condition as “terrifying.” During a routine check-up, doctors discovered the hole, which is a significant defect that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. The surgery involved making small incisions rather than the traditional approach of opening the breastbone, allowing for a smoother recovery.
“I was floored as I had gone 48 years oblivious, not knowing anything was wrong,” Willis stated. “The mental shift was the biggest challenge because when you hear those words, it terrifies you.” She hopes that by sharing her experience, she can help others facing similar health challenges.
Advocacy and Mental Health
Following her surgery, Emma has become an advocate for the British Heart Foundation (BHF), participating in a campaign that aims to raise awareness about heart conditions. The BHF is celebrating 65 years of service by unveiling 65 red benches across the UK, each symbolizing lives affected by cardiovascular disease.
During her appearance on ITV’s Lorraine, Willis reflected on the impact of her diagnosis and the importance of early detection. “Thank you for the kindness online,” she said, expressing gratitude towards the medical staff who cared for her. “The amount of people since said that happened to me, and I found out after having a stroke. That kind of really makes you realize, actually, ‘oh, that’s what I could have been dealing with.’ So I was so lucky.”
Willis also shared her struggles with anxiety post-surgery, highlighting the psychological aspect of recovery. “It’s been a smooth recovery; it’s been much more of a psychological adjustment, because you don’t have a wound that you can see. The healing is all internal and you can’t feel it,” she explained.
Emma Willis’s experience sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional and mental health challenges that accompany significant medical diagnoses. Her story not only illustrates the importance of regular health check-ups but also serves as a reminder of the resilience of those living with heart conditions.
