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Television presenter Emma Willis has opened up about a recent health scare, revealing that she underwent keyhole heart surgery after doctors discovered she had a hole in her heart, a condition she’d unknowingly lived with since birth.
The popular host took to Instagram on Wednesday to share her unexpected news, posting a series of candid photos taken during her stay at London’s Royal Brompton Hospital. In an emotional and heartfelt message to fans, the 48-year-old star expressed her gratitude for the care she received, as well as the unwavering support of her husband, musician and actor Matt Willis.
Credit: instagram.com/emmawillisofficial
"A big humungous THANK YOU to the team at the Royal Brompton Hospital for their care and support," Emma wrote. "A few weeks ago, I had keyhole heart surgery, which feels very strange to write, and even stranger when I say it out loud. From investigations last year, to diagnosis and then surgery, they were absolutely incredible. As was @mattjwillis who never left my side."
Emma explained that the discovery was completely unexpected. “Turns out, I’ve been pottering around for 48 years blissfully unaware I had a hole in my heart,” she added. “Isn’t it bonkers what’s happening in our bodies that we have no idea about…”
Credit: instagram.com/emmawillisofficial
The type of surgery Emma underwent, keyhole surgery, is minimally invasive and typically used to repair conditions like atrial septal defects (ASD), a hole between the heart’s upper chambers that is often congenital. While many ASDs are discovered early in life, some go unnoticed for years, sometimes decades, as in Emma’s case.
Support flooded in from fans and fellow celebrities, who praised her bravery and openness in sharing such a personal experience. The post highlighted not only the importance of regular health check-ups but also the hidden resilience many people carry without even realising it.
Emma’s revelation serves as a reminder that even the healthiest and most active people can be unaware of silent conditions lurking beneath the surface, and that listening to our bodies and seeking medical advice when something feels off is crucial.
Credit: instagram.com/emmawillisofficial
Thankfully, Emma is now on the mend, and judging by her positivity and sense of humour, she’s well on her way back to full health, with a little more awareness and a whole lot of gratitude.
