Children's TV star announces her own death on social media

A TV presenter has announced her own death on social media. It's A Knockout star Fiona MacDonald had been battling Motor Neurone Disesase but in recent years, had refused further treatment for the condition. In a heartbreaking post, she stated that she hoped she was "looking down from a cloud". She was 67.

The Aussie-born presenter was known for shows including Wombat, where she appeared on screen as the puppetry successor Agro's Cartoon Connection in the 1980s had been battling the disease since November 2021. In the 2000s, Fiona took a step back from her TV career in order to focus on her own wine business.

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Prior to her death, Fiona had written her own announcement and it was revealed that her sister, Kylie, had been left with the task of sharing it with her followers.

In a statement shared on social media, Fiona said: "Farewell my friends. My sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building - Hopefully I'm looking down from a cloud. Last night brought an end to a very tough few months.

"Was very peaceful, the boys and Kylie stayed with me to say goodbye. While I've never wanted to die, the thought of leaving my tortured body was a relief. The last few months have been tough. Unable to swallow normal food, the tube feeding that should have sustained me didn’t work because my gut couldn’t tolerate any of the multiple brands of protein drinks. It went straight in and straight out."

Fiona said that "black humour" had helped her in the first few years after her diagnosis but had later "turned to despair", reports The Mirror. She made the decision to stop accepting medical support after "much soul searching." She continued: "I made the decision after much soul searching to cease all medical supports and finally go into hospital for end of life palliative care.

"When you love life as much as I do, it takes a great deal of courage to make choices that lead to farewell. So let's not call it goodbye as I hope to see you again on the other side. Until then: 'May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, May the rain fall softly upon your fields until we meet again, And may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.'"

Fiona's upload saw her smiling alongside her two sons Harry and Rafe, as well as their family dog. Another image saw her with Kylie as the pair posed for a picture against the stunning sunset.

Fans have since taken to social media to pay tribute to the late star, with one writing: "Thanks for everything, Fiona Mac. A huge part of my 80s childhood." A second added: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Fiona McDonald. From Wombat to It’s a Knockout, she was a lot of fun, and a really lovely lady. RIP."

"Farewell and thank you the wonderful and funny Fiona MacDonald. We will all miss you. Rest in Peace," commented another. A fourth typed: "Farewell lovely Fi… your courage has been inspirational and you’ll be greatly missed. Much love to you, your family and your many friends."