Television Star Reveals Her Own Death In Viral Instagram Post
Australian TV host Fiona MacDonald has passed away at the age of 67, nearly three years after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).
On October 3, her sister Kylie shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, written by Fiona herself, announcing that she had died the previous night. MacDonald was best known as the host of the game show It’s a Knockout.
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“Farewell my friends. My sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building – Hopefully I’m looking down from a cloud. Last night brought an end to a very tough few months. Was very peaceful the boys and Kylie stayed with me to say goodbye. While I’ve never wanted to die, the thought of leaving my tortured body was a relief.”
“The last few months have been tough. Unable to swallow normal food, the tube feeding that should have sustained me didn’t work because my gut couldn’t tolerate any of the multiple brands of protein drinks. It went straight in and straight out.
I have been slowly starving, growing weaker and weaker. I’ve also developed terrible back pain because my muscles aren’t supporting my frame.”
“The black humour that served me well through the first years of this journey turned to despair. I made the decision after much soul searching to cease all medical supports and finally go into hospital for end of life palliative care. When you love life as much as I do, it takes a great deal of courage to make choices that lead to farewell.”
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“So let’s not call it goodbye as I hope to see you again on the other side. Until then: “May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, May the rain fall softly upon your fields until we meet again, And may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”I carry your love and laughter with me and hope you’ll remember mine.”
According to WebMD, Motor neurons are responsible for controlling movements like walking, talking to a friend, or chewing food. Like other parts of the body, they can become damaged. You may be familiar with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which is one type of motor neuron disease. However, there are several other lesser-known types. These nerve cells play a crucial role in sending signals throughout your body, enabling movement.
After being diagnosed in 2021, MacDonald dedicated herself to raising funds for a cure. Through her “I Am Making a Difference” fundraising page, she shared that, with the support of family and friends, she had raised over $225,000 AUD (nearly $155,000 USD) by completing various challenges.
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The late star is survived by her two sons, Harry and Rafe, as well as her sisters, Kylie and Jacki MacDonald. Jacki, a former TV host, is known for her work on shows like Hey Hey It’s Saturday.
Rest In Peace.
