Former Loose Women star Andrea McLean has opened up about the terrifying health scare that could have cost her life, revealing that she “would not be here” if her husband Nick and family had waited another 24 hours to act.
The broadcaster, who left Loose Women after 13 years to focus on her wellness brand This Girl is on Fire, has faced a rollercoaster of challenges in recent years — from the collapse of her business and financial hardship, to life-threatening health issues.
Speaking candidly, Andrea described the critical moments in hospital following a string of illnesses, including Covid, kidney failure, pneumonia, and eventually sepsis. “Nick was told by the doctors — I was too out of it to know this — that if we had waited another 24 hours, I would not be here. And I’m glad I wasn’t told at the time cos I think I would have freaked out because I was feeling so unwell and just trying to stay kind of compos mentis,” she explained.
Despite the severity of her condition, Andrea’s determination shone through. “And I think even then, it was a case of, ‘Right, so this has happened. What do I need to do to get better?’ You know, I’ve always had a kind of, ‘Right, roll your sleeves up’ sort of attitude to things, even laying in bed in hospital super poorly,” she added.
Her close friend and former co-star Denise Welch was reportedly left “devastated” after learning Andrea had been struggling silently. Andrea reflected on the emotional toll of opening up in her memoir Shameless, recounting how she and her husband had to sell their home, engagement rings, and even cash in her pension to manage mounting debts.
From financial ruin to near-death, Andrea’s story is a stark reminder of resilience and courage in the face of overwhelming challenges. “For a while, I was almost too scared to hope. Because it’s the hope that kills you. That was a hard flip-flop for my brain to make, to try and steer it back to being hopeful. But, yeah. I’m there now,” she said.
Andrea McLean’s journey — marked by public triumphs and private battles — has resonated deeply with fans across the UK, showcasing a woman who refuses to be defined by adversity.
