Chris Kamara gives health update on GMB and reveals he’s in therapy for speech disorder

Soccer Saturday host Chris Kamara appeared on Friday’s Good Morning Britain where he spoke to pal Ben Shephard about his struggles since being diagnosed with Apraxia

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GMB: Chris Kamara explains his apraxia of speech

Chris Kamara has revealed he is currently in therapy after being diagnosed with speech disorder Apraxia.

The 64-year-old TV presenter appeared on Friday’s Good Morning Britain to chat to Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins about the upcoming series of Ninja Warriors.

However, the conversation soon turned to Chris’ health as Charlotte asked him how he’s getting on since his diagnosis and how the public’s support has helped him.

“It was incredible, today’s a good day, today I think I’m fine, I don’t know how I sound but it seems as if I’m okay,” Chris replied.

“I’m not really sure about how it comes out because if I explain my Apraxia, it’s like we take for granted the fact that when we think and coming through our speech, it’s comfortable, it’s easy, it’s natural.

“My Apraxia when it’s bad stops those signals from that brain going to that mouth so it slows it’s down. In fact, at times it slurs the words as well. So people are looking and thinking, ‘Is he alright? Is he drunk?’

So when I put out the message after Soccer Saturday, I never in a million years expected that response,” Chris continued.

“But everyone has been so brilliant, so kind. People have got in touch who I haven’t spoken to for 30 years to wish me well.”

Ben then told him: “You sound great this morning mate and you sharing this I know is really important.”

“It’s difficult Ben because it’s neurological problem, we don’t know, the experts don’t know,” Chris continued.

“The brain is such a complex part of you that it’s hard to say whether it is the thyroid that’s brought this on, will it get better in time?

“I’m trying to use parts of my brain now that allows me to speak fluently. So I’m with speech therapist and I’m with another therapist who’s trying his best, so it’s quite incredible really.”

Last weekend Chris decided to speak about how his health after Soccer Saturday viewers were worried for his health after tuning into the latest episode.

Chris was covering the League One match between Rotherham United and Shrewsbury Town on Saturday afternoon. And, after multiple messages of concern, the pundit explained his situation and pledged to “beat” the speech disorder.

“Just wanted to let a few of you know who tweeted me today that I am ok ish,” Kamara tweeted. “Alongside my Thyroid problem I have developed Apraxia of Speech & have been working to get my speech back to normal.

“Some days it can be a little slow and some days it’s normal. Hopefully I can beat this!”

The response was heartwarming, with Sky Sports presenter David Jones saying “You’re a hero to me and so many others Kammy sending love”. Fellow presenter Kelly Cates said “You’ve got this Kammy,” while former Leeds United and Sunderland manager Peter Reid said “Love you top man. You will get there”.

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV and ITV Hub.