Good Morning Britain presenters Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins spoke to Soccer Saturday host Chris Kamara during the Friday edition of the ITV news programme.
Chris, 64, revealed he is currently in therapy after being diagnosed with speech disorder Apraxia, meaning he can sometimes struggle to get his words out.
As the interview began about the forthcoming series of Ninja Warriors, the conversation eventually turned to Kamara’s health as Charlotte asked how he was and whether the public’s support had helped him.
Chris replied: “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.
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“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?'”
Chris continued: “So when I put out the message after Soccer Saturday, I never in a million years expected that response.
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“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 responded: “You sound great this morning mate and you sharing this I know is really important.”
Chris replied: “It’s difficult Ben because it’s neurological problem, we don’t know, the experts don’t know.
“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?
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“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.”
Chris had been forced to address his condition after his impaired speech during his coverage of League One match between Rotherham United and Shrewsbury Town sparked concern from viewers, who took to social media to share their worries for his health.
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Chris posted online: “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!”
GMB airs weekdays at 6am on ITV.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
