ITV presenter Fiona Phillips is writing a compelling memoir amid her battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
The 64-year-old presenter was diagnosed with the degenerative brain disorder three years ago. At the time, she revealed how it had “ravaged” her family, after her parents battled the disease, before adding: “And now it has come for me.”
In a statement today (February 19), the broadcaster said she hopes her book will bring peace into the lives of others affected by the same disease.
Fiona Phillips announces new book
The TV presenter is working on her forthcoming memoir, titled Remember When. She is writing it with the help of her husband, former This Morning editor Martin Frizell, and her friend and journalist, Allison Phillips.
The UK publishing company Pan Macmillan has bought the rights to the book. Remember When is expected to hit the shelves in July 2025.
The press release notes: “Written with Fiona’s trademark honesty, Remember Me is a compelling and moving memoir as well as a book offering an important insight into life with a disease that will impact many of us.”
I want you to know, you are not alone.
Meanwhile, commenting on the memoir herself, Fiona said: “I hope this book can show people a little about what it is like to live with Alzheimer’s. How frightening and confusing it is. But also how much life can still bring joy and be valued.”
She further added: “And if you or someone you love is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, I hope this book brings you some comfort. I want you to know, you are not alone.”
‘Warning signs’ she ignored
Fiona’s book details the symptoms she experienced before her diagnosis, which she overlooked as signs of the menopause.
The first ‘warning signs’ included the inability to concentrate or “brain fog”. The symptoms gradually turned into memory loss and “growing confusion”.
Fiona and her husband also share their perspectives on NHS in the book. The couple hope their experience can make it easier for other patients’ families to navigate the system.
Commenting on Fiona’s memoir, Publishing Director of Pan MacMillan, Ingrid Connell, said: “As a broadcaster Fiona was known to be warm, empathetic and honest, and those very qualities are what makes this book stand out.
“She refuses to sugar-coat the truth about Alzheimer’s. Her positivity and desire to help others impacted by the disease are inspirational.”
Read more: Lorraine Kelly on dementia fears amid Fiona Phillips’ diagnosis: ‘It really brings it home’
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