Gemma Collins issued a desperate plea to fans as she opened up about the "toughest week of my life." The reality star took to Instagram with a heart-wrenching photo hugging her health-stricken mum, Joan, 81, who was lying in a hospital bed. Gemma was inundated with support as revealed that her mum had been diagnosed with pneumonia. In the emotional post to her 2.2 million followers, the 44-year-old shared: "This week has been the toughest week of my life.

"I didn't know if I was coming or going and still don't, my mum is really unwell and I just want to thank the NHS doctors and nurses at BROOMFIELD HOSPITAL CHELMSFORD HOSPITAL FOR looking after mum so well." Gemma added: "Mum has phenomena and is really struggling, please, if you believe in prayer like me, please, say a prayer for mum to get well asap."

She continued: "Thank you to all my closest for being there for me and for everyone who has reached out to higher powers to help mum, you know who you are. "Also, all the friends and family who have visited and keep bringing the love for mum.

"Mum and me always have loved Madonna and her music, so it's getting me through atm giving me a lift," the TV star revealed. Her health battle comes as a devastating blow for the mother and daughter duo, as Joan was also hospitalised last year.

At the time, Gemma informed fans that her mum was placed into intensive care after she "stopped breathing" and advised her followers that "no day is to be taken for granted." Prior to that, in March 2023, the reality star revealed she was having a life-saving gene test after Joan was diagnosed with breast cancer.

That year, the 81-year-old discovered a cancerous lump between her breast and armpit, but soon received the "all clear." Recalling the conversation with her mum about her health, Gemma said: "It was over the phone. I was in the back of a taxi in London, and I was like, 'Are you all right, mum? Where are you?' as we say every day, ten times a day.

"She said, 'Ah I didn't want to tell you, but I've had a lump in my breast'. I was like, 'What?', and she said, 'But it's fine I've got the all-clear'. I was like, 'Oh, my God. Why didn't you tell me?'" she added to The Sun.

In her latest post, the former TOWIE star was inundated with support from fans and her celebrity pals, including Strictly's Ashley Roberts, who penned: "Sending my love, gorgeous."

ITV star Tanya Beardsley commented: "O gems, sending so much to you all." (sic). As ex-Eastenders actress Patsy Palmer added: "Praying for her darling." Loose Women's Saira Khan shared: "Sending you all my love and prayers, Gemma."

While one fan commented: "Praying for you and your family Gemma, hope your Mum gets well soon." As another echoed: "Thinking of you Gem!! Praying your mum makes a full & speedy recovery!"