Derryn Hinch, the 80-year-old media personality and former senator for Victoria, has experienced quite the Christmas this year, albeit not without some bumps along the way. Just days before the holiday, Hinch shared on social media the aftermath of a fall he endured, resulting in noticeable bruising around his eyes.
Posting on Boxing Day, Hinch included a photograph of himself and his long-time partner, Lynda Stoner, their smiles contrasting sharply with the injuries on his face. "I didn't post this pic earlier because I did not want to pass on bad news at Christmas," he wrote on Facebook, explaining the situation.
Hinch went on to detail the circumstances of his injuries, saying, "I had a pre-Xmas fall, smacked my nose and, as a consequence, blacked both my eyes." He humorously added, "Looked like I lost ten rounds with Lionel Rose," referring to the legendary Australian boxer, bringing some levity to his misfortune.
The photo and his jovial attitude brought forth an outpouring of support from fans and followers, many of whom commented on the post, wishing him speedy recovery. His spirit, it seems, remains unbroken even amid physical setbacks.
Despite his injuries, Hinch appeared to be enjoying Christmas with Stoner, with whom he shares a storied past. Originally engaged to be married back in the '80s, the couple took different paths for several decades before rekindling their romance in 2016. Their bond has deepened, and the support from Stoner during this challenging time is evident.
Hinch's recent fall marks another chapter in what has been a tumultuous year for the media giant, who has faced various health issues. Earlier this month, he was hospitalized due to atrial fibrillation, or an irregular heartbeat. He underwent electroshock therapy to help regulate his heart rhythm. "I found myself getting short of breath and I thought, 'this is not normal'. My cardiologist booked me for hospital, and they gave me an electric shock to the heart, which is pretty scary, but it worked," he told the Herald Sun.
The introduction of this dangerous heart condition followed earlier battles with skin cancer. Earlier this year, Hinch was undergoing radiation treatment after doctors discovered melanoma on his forehead. He described the situation, noting, "It is not good. I have had two operations on my face and they still have to do radiation. The only good news is they looked at a spot I was operated on about eight years ago and that's clear." His resilience is commendable, with Hinch approaching each day with the mentality, "I tick off each day and once it’s gone, it’s gone. It’s pretty serious, but as someone once said, that's life."
Fans and social media followers have rallied around Hinch during this time, offering encouragement with comments like, "Look after yourself" and "Sending big hugs...hope you are doing okay." These gestures of solidarity highlight the affection and respect he has earned throughout his public life.
Hinch's determination to maintain positivity amid adversity shines through, showing he is not one to let life's obstacles dampen his spirit. This Christmas season, with all its complications, serves as another reminder of his resilience, both as a public figure and as someone personally overcoming serious health challenges.
