Alastair Stewart, 72, shares heartbreaking details about dementia battle: ‘I can't tie my own shoelaces’
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GB News
Beloved former GB News presenter Alastair Stewart has revealed the extent of his trials with dementia, including being unable to tie his shoelaces.
The veteran broadcaster was diagnosed with early-onset vascular dementia in September 2023.
In 1976, Stewart began his career on ITV's Southern Television before moving to ITN in 1980.
The 72-year-old continued at ITV until 2020, before joining GB News.
Stewart had a glittering career as a journalist, covering: the fall of the Berlin Wall, several elections, and the late Queen's funeral. While at GB News, the broadcaster covered the coronation of King Charles.
Earlier this year, Camilla Tominey won 'Interview of the Year' at the TRIC awards for her emotional dialogue with the Stewart and his condition.
Stewart covered many historic events in his career, including the fall of the Berlin Wall
GB News / ITV
In 2023 a scan at his GP revealed Stewart had suffered minor “infract” strokes – leading to his dementia diagnosis.
Stewart was soon forced to leave the channel due to the illness and retired to his Hampshire home with his wife Sally.
"I've covered the Gulf War and run the very first television Leaders' debate, but now I can't tie my own shoelaces or choose my own shirt," Stewart admitted.
Speaking to The Telegraph, the 72-year-old was determined not to let his difficulties defeat him.
Camilla Tominey won a TRIC award for her interview with Stewart
Getty
Stewart declared: “But there’s no point feeling self-indulgent about it. I won’t condemn myself to an awful life in the short term.”
The former GB News presenter explained the “demeaning and soul destroying” limitations he now has – also including being unable to drive.
Stewart’s wife has taken on the role of caring for him, which he says she does with “enormous calibre and talent.”
However, the veteran broadcaster revealed: “She is a beautiful, intelligent woman. I hate reducing her role in life to being my carer.”
The 72-year-old was advised by doctors to remind himself of three things that make him happy every day to keep his memory active.
More often than not, Stewart’s mind goes to his grandchildren who he describes as his “medicine”.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Alastair Stewart for Alzheimers Research UK
Sewart has become an ambassador for Alzheimer’s Research UK, which is fundraising to find a cure for Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.
Following his own diagnosis at the GP, Stewart advises everyone to get regular checkup’s.
“Don’t ignore it. Go to your GP. And if you’ve got it, don’t be ‘Johnny-b******s-brave’ about it. Go and talk to somebody,” he advised.
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