Zoe Ball has opened up about how she was "in shock for two years" following the tragic death of her partner, Billy Yates, who died by suicide in 2017. Speaking to Red magazine about the awful time in her life, she said: "I believe I was in shock for two years afterwards. It’s like you can’t see beyond putting your feet on the floor and getting out of bed each day. Since losing Billy, I’ve met lots of people who’ve helped me have a better understanding of the complexities of mental health. But also, it’s key to remember there is help available for people living with mental health issues and there is hope."
Zoe opened up about the death of her partner
The TV presenter has previously spoken about her final moments with her partner, who she began dating in 2016. After filming 350-mile bike ride for Sport Relief in honour of Billy, she said: "It was just that moment and that feeling of, 'Oh my god, I love him so much and we'll find help and it will all be ok.' And I wish I'd told him that."
Billy died in 2017
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She continued: "I just thought, whatever it is we have to do, I love him so much we will get through this somehow. He got on his bike and he cycled off and he turned round and he blew me a kiss, and that was the last time that I saw him. And I feel really grateful that I got my goodbye in a way. And I think that was my goodbye." Following his death, Zoe told her listeners on Radio 2 that their thoughts and messages had "meant the world," and said that Billy was "a truly special chap" who "loved to make everyone laugh".
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