Monty Don, the beloved gardening expert and broadcaster, has revealed the profound impact a serious health scare had on his perspective about life and death. In 2008, Monty was forced to take a break from his role on Gardeners’ World after suffering a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), often referred to as a “mini-stroke.”
This frightening experience was a turning point for Monty. Speaking candidly to The Times, he admitted that the stroke made him “terribly aware” of his own mortality. “I wasn’t well so I couldn’t do much. I couldn’t drive,” he said. “In a way, it was a good time because I had to stop.”
Reflecting on the moment, Monty shared, “It was the first time I realised that, yes, you are going to die. All the clichés are true — the things that matter are love, family, friends, a nice glass of wine or cup of tea.” He went on to emphasize that fame and fortune hold no value when confronted with the reality of death. “Nobody on their deathbed is going to say, ‘I wish I had been more famous,’” he noted.
READ MORE: Nigella Lawson Joins The Great British Bake Off as New Judge, Admits It’s “Daunting”
READ MORE: Residents Report Lingering Illness After Toxic Fires at Tetbury Industrial Estate Near King’s Home
Monty’s initial symptoms began as a “funny feeling,” which he initially ignored. However, after medical consultation, it was confirmed he had experienced a TIA — a warning sign of increased stroke risk. The NHS explains that a transient ischaemic attack causes a temporary blockage in the brain’s blood supply, leading to stroke-like symptoms such as vision and speech problems, numbness in limbs, and dizziness.
In an interview with The Guardian in 2009, Monty described waking up feeling strange and dizzy. He told his wife Sarah, “God, something funny is happening; I may be having a stroke.” Despite this, he remained calm: “I said, ‘Hang on, I can move my fingers.’ I remember thinking, ‘Oh, get a grip, you’re fine.’ And I told Sarah, ‘Hold me because I think I’m dying, and if I am, I want to die in your arms.’”
Monty’s experience serves as a powerful reminder to cherish what truly matters in life and highlights the importance of recognising early signs of serious health conditions.