**Emma Willis Opens Up About ‘Scary’ Heart Condition Following Surgery**
Television favourite Emma Willis has spoken candidly about a recent health scare which saw her undergoing keyhole surgery to repair a hole in her heart. The much-loved presenter, best known for her roles on shows such as Big Brother and The Voice UK, revealed details of her condition this week during an interview with Heart Breakfast’s Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden.
Willis, who has been a familiar face on British screens for years, shared that the discovery was unexpected and unsettling. She explained that earlier this year she learned she had a congenital heart defect which had gone undetected for her entire life. “I found out in January and by March I was in on the table and having a little device fitted into my heart to fill a hole that I never knew existed,” Willis told listeners.
The discovery came after Willis experienced persistent palpitations – sensations she had previously put down to stress. “For the past couple of years, I’ve been having them more and more, and they got to a point where it was quite a lot,” she recounted. It was only through medical investigation that the real cause was identified: a hole that had quietly existed since birth.
Keyhole surgery, often praised for its minimally invasive nature, was used to correct the issue. Willis described the procedure as “pretty scary,” highlighting the emotional toll that such unanticipated health problems can take. Despite the relief following the successful surgery, she acknowledged that the healing process is far from simple.
Since the operation, Willis has noticed a reduction in her heart palpitations, though she concedes that some irregularities may persist. “I might have them forever,” she reflected, explaining that “my heart has got to kind of learn how to refunction hole-free.” This underscores the ongoing adaptation her body must make as it recovers from both the surgery and the newly restored circulatory function.
Throughout her ordeal, Willis has maintained a characteristically positive outlook. Balancing her health with family life – she shares three children with husband Matt Willis, bassist for the band Busted – has been a central focus. Her resilience and openness have drawn praise from fans and health advocates alike, who applaud her for raising awareness about congenital heart conditions.
During the same radio appearance, the conversation lightened as Willis was pressed about whether she considered Busted or their friendly rivals McFly to be the superior band. The two groups, iconic to a generation of British pop music fans, are soon to embark on a joint ‘Busted vs. McFly’ tour. True to her diplomatic style, Willis coyly deflected: “The proof will be in the pudding. They’ve got a lot of dates to show who is the better band. I like to boogie to both of them.”
Willis’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of paying close attention to one’s health and seeking medical advice when unusual symptoms persist. Heart palpitations, often dismissed or attributed to anxiety, can sometimes indicate underlying conditions that warrant further investigation.
As she continues her recovery and returns to her professional and personal commitments, Emma Willis remains a relatable figure, unafraid to share her vulnerabilities. Her story resonates with many, drawing attention to hidden health issues and inspiring others not to ignore their own wellbeing. The TV star’s journey not only brings congenital heart defects into public discussion but also highlights the ever-evolving landscape of medical care and the hope it offers patients in similar situations.