‘s fiancée who is affectionately known as “Fruitcake,” revealed she has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy and no longer recognises her own reflection.
The couple, who first met nine years ago while walking in Peckham, have been engaged since 2020 and have made countless public appearances together.
On Tuesday, Fruitcake took to to address her six-week hiatus from social media with a lengthy statement.
Alongside a collection of candid selfies showing the different stages of facial paralysis, she revealed that she’d been recovering from the neurological condition.
Fruitcake penned: “Hello, everyone! I’ve been away for the past couple of months due to a diagnosis of Bell’s palsy.
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Fred and Fruitcake have been together since 2018 (Image: ITV)
“For those who may not know this condition causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face.
“Initially, I experienced excruciating pain, facial distortion (check out my pics – last one is most recent), and discomfort in my ear and head, which was incredibly painful and challenging to manage.”
The Celebrity Gogglebox star explained: “The symptoms of Bell’s palsy are similar to a stroke. And so when I called the NHS helpline, I was rushed to A&E by ambulance for immediate care.
“Now, I’m managing some ongoing issues like visual disturbances and aches in my ear and jaw.”
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She admitted: “One of the toughest challenges has been not recognising my reflection in the mirror, which made me retreat from social situations.”
Despite the healthcare, Fruitcake added: “However, each day brings new blessings, and I’m starting to look more like myself again.”
The TV star expressed her “heartfelt gratitude” to her loved ones and NHS workers and wished her followers “a lovely Christmas”.
Fruitcake was inundated with support from fans and her celebrity pals including Fred who simply commented: “My Love,” with a red heart and heart-eyed emojis.
Former star Danielle Harold commented: “Sending you lots of love,” as One Radio host Clara Amfo echoed: “Sending you love sweet lady.”