Gemma Atkinson has cleared the air surrounding her daughter’s health. The radio star recently revealed her daughter Mia, six, had been undergoing treatment for epilepsy. Gemma shares Mia and two-year-old Thiago with her partner Gorka Marquez. The couple met while filming Strictly Come Dancing in 2017.
Gemma was partnered with Aljaz Skorjanec while Gorka danced with singer Alexanda Burke. Gemma and Gorka went on to get engaged in 2021 but have not tied the knot yet. They regularly share updates from their busy family life on social media.
In a recent episode of Women’s Health’s podcast “Just As Well”, Gemma spoke with Claire Sanderson about Mia’s diagnoses with epilepsy. The neurological condition causes seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain and Mia is now receiving treatment.
She shared Mia was advised to go on a keto diet to help with brain function. Gemma said she found herself in a research “rabbit hole” after finding out about her daughter’s diagnosis.
However, Gemma recently shared an update on social media to clear the air about Mia’s condition. Sharing a statement to her Instagram story, Gemma wrote: “Morning everyone, just jumping on to address the recent headlines regarding Mia.
“I was recording an episode of my podcast last month and in a relaxed environment with mates I mentioned her health during a topic we were discussing. To put this in context, Mia’s diagnosis was something we dealt with privately almost 18 months ago.
“This isn’t recent and I’m pleased to say she’s now absolutely fine. She’s thriving and doing everything in life she wants to do. The amount of support and kind messages I’ve received from people has been really lovely, but I don’t want to mislead people into thinking this is our current situation.
“18 months ago it was a scary time and to any other families who have been through or are currently going through similar I truly understand how you feel. There is light at the end of the tunnel though.
“Many children grow out of absence seizures, just like Mia has and they can live a very normal life, so stay positive, thanks again for your kind words.”
It’s been a busy year for the family as Mia and Thiago both celebrated their birthdays over the summer. Gemma shared a post dedicated to Mia’s birthday, alongside a video which included snaps from the day she was born six years ago.
She accompanied the post with the heartfelt words: “6 today! It’s true that when you become a parent the days are long but the years are short. I feel like I’ve blinked and here you are. A kind, empathetic, funny, caring, beautiful little lady, and we couldn’t be any more proud of you.
“The most wonderful big sister to Tio and Benji and you keep me, papa and the rest of our family entertained daily without even knowing it. My birthday wish for you is health & happiness.
“And that you always keep being authentically you. Keep speaking your mind and keep asking those questions and if ever in doubt, mum and papa will sort it. We’ll sort anything for you. Mia Louise Marquez. Our little force of nature. We love you.”
The two children both have July birthdays as Thiago turned two. Gorka shared a post on Instagram as he wrote: “Happy 2nd Birthday Thiago aka my little man.
“Watching you grow is my favourite thing in the world. Making us all laugh, dancing around (get it from me) and always eating (that’s Gemma) LOL Feliz cumpleaños Thiago we love you.”