Former Loose Women presenter Andrea McLean recently shared details of a frightening health ordeal that led to her being rushed to the hospital.
The 55-year-old
TV
personality, who stepped away from Loose Women in 2020, took to Instagram to reveal how she collapsed at home in December
and was later diagnosed with severe pneumonia, acute kidney injury, and sepsis.
McLean explained that she initially came down with the flu, but her condition quickly deteriorated.
She recounted the terrifying moment when she collapsed in her bathroom and was unable to move.
She remained on the floor for an hour before her husband, Nick Feeney, discovered her.
Concerned about her deteriorating condition, they contacted their GP, who urged them to call emergency services immediately.
“The ambulance team was amazing,” McLean shared, explaining that her blood pressure was dangerously low, making it impossible for her to stand.
She was in excruciating pain as medical professionals assessed her condition and transported her to the hospital. Further examinations, including X-rays and CT scans, confirmed the severity of her illness.
Following her diagnosis, McLean was immediately placed on IV antibiotics and fluids to stabilize her condition.
She spent four days in the hospital before being discharged, but her recovery process was far from over. She had to return to the hospital daily for a week to receive additional antibiotic treatments.
Despite medical intervention, her recovery has been slow, and she admitted that she is still struggling with daily activities.
In a candid Instagram post, McLean expressed her frustration with the ongoing effects of her illness. She described feeling unable to resume her normal routine and struggling with unexpected “funny turns” while out for a walk or engaging in light exercise.
“Every part of the process—getting up, going out, trying to get things done—ends with me feeling weak and unwell,” she shared.
Throughout her ordeal, McLean credited her husband for his unwavering support. Feeney took on multiple responsibilities, driving her to the hospital every day, waiting through lengthy clinic visits, and ensuring their household ran smoothly. She expressed deep gratitude for his care and patience during such a difficult time.
This health scare follows a previous period of exhaustion McLean experienced in 2023. She had been battling extreme fatigue for three months, which left her bedridden at times.
In another social media update, she mentioned attending an event in support of her former Loose Women co-star, Brenda Edwards, marking the anniversary of Edwards’ son Jamal’s passing.
However, McLean’s health took a turn for the worse shortly after the event, leaving her bedridden for days. She suspected her lingering health issues could be related to a possible autoimmune condition or long-term effects of COVID-19.
Despite her ongoing struggles, McLean has been making efforts to find joy in small moments. She shared how she recently took her mother out for a pampering session as a belated Christmas present, had a relaxing lunch with family and friends, and enjoyed a traditional Sunday walk.
She remains hopeful about her recovery but acknowledges that it has been a slow and challenging process.
McLean’s health battle has resonated with her followers, many of whom have sent messages of support and well wishes.
She continues to share updates about her journey, hoping to shed light on the realities of dealing with severe illness and the unpredictable nature of recovery.
Her openness about her experience has sparked conversations about health awareness and the importance of seeking medical attention when necessary.
While she has yet to fully regain her strength, McLean is focusing on taking things one day at a time.
She remains optimistic that she will eventually return to her normal routine and is determined to prioritize her well-being in the meantime.
Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking help when needed.
