Rachael: I’m wrapping 18 years’ worth of presents for my little boy
BBC host prepares for her death
DYING BBC radio presenter Rachael Bland has revealed her poignant future plans for her young son.
She is also organising and wrapping three-year-old Freddie’s birthday presents until he is 21 to remind him of her when she is gone.
The arrangements Rachael, 40, has put in place for after her death include a request her lad’s hair is not cropped too short.
Breast cancer sufferer Rachael, who has been given days to live, said: “I have a WhatsApp group with [my husband] Steve’s sister where I send her things I want for Freddie and his future.
“The things that might upset Steve now but she will make sure happens. Like not cutting his hair too short until he insists or my wish for him to go to the very best school and university possible, so long as that’s what he wants.
“I’m also planning and wrapping birthday presents which he can open between the ages of four and 21.”
The Radio 5 Live newsreader said: “I want him to remember me in some way.”
She added: “My main plan has been to write my memoir, ‘For Freddie’, which is almost finished. It’s a collection of those stories your parents tell you over the years... mixed in with the advice they give you.” Rachael said: “If I were to release all my feelings about leaving my precious Freddie behind, I wouldn’t be able to enjoy the rest of my time.
“So I tuck them away, graciously accept every little hug, squeeze, cuddle and utterance of ‘I love you so much, Mummy’ and try not to let him see it break my heart.”
Rachael revealed this week that the end was near.