Roman Kemp has been flooded with support after revealing that he has been diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
The Capital Breakfast host made the revelation to Mail Online, explaining that the condition causes a person’s breathing to start and stop as they sleep.
Kemp said that prior to his diagnosis, he believed he had narcolepsy, caused by the strains of his early morning work.
Narcolepsy is a condition which causes people to suddenly fall asleep at inappropriate times, as per the NHS.
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He said: “My tiredness levels were debilitating, and they said to me it was because of my job and I said this is different.”
Social media users have been quick to support Kemp, who previously opened up about his battle with depression on The Diary of a CEO podcast.
One wrote: “I’ve not long been diagnosed with this it’s awful taking a lot of getting used to especially that awful mask I hate it. Hope ur ok xxxxx [sic]”
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A second added: “Lots of people with this disorder live happy normal lives. I know several so don't despair Roman x [sic]”
A third social media user said: “Be strong [Roman] make sure you talk to people don't keep it to yourself xxx [sic]”
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“Don’t let it frighten you,” wrote a fourth. “You would be surprised just how many people have this I’ve got family and friends with it and they don’t treat life any different at all Hope this helps ! [sic]”
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A fifth wrote: “Keep strong Ronan - you have a lot of support around you - we love you and pray that our prayers help you in your need.”
The 29-year-old has hosted the Capital FM morning radio show for five years, and Kemp said he wants to continue for another five before retiring.
He said of his future plans: “I want to be a stay-at-home dad and open a dog sanctuary.”
Many people with sleep apnoea, including Roman, have to use what’s known as a CPAP machine to ensure they have enough oxygen as they sleep.
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The host, who is currently single, has now speculated about the impact this could have on his love life.
The radio host said is ‘nothing sexy’ about coming back to his house because of his newly-diagnosed condition.
“They are expecting candles and mood lighting but they're getting a Darth Vader impression into an oxygen tank,” he said. “My love life will look a niche Channel 5 documentary!”
For more information about sleep apnea and its symptoms, please visit the NHS page on the condition here.
Words: Emma Guinness
The Tyla Team