UNDER THE MICROSCOPE: Celia Birtwell, 83, the textile and fashion designer, answers our health quiz
Can you run up the stairs?
I can still go pretty fast. But since I had heart problems – about four years ago, I had a stent, then I got atrial fibrillation – I don’t really enjoy walking anymore. My partner and I often go to our house in the country, where I do a bit of gardening.
Do you get your five servings a day?
I eat fairly sensibly I think. My appetite is not as big as it used to be and I am much slimmer.
Have you ever been on a diet?
Oh yeah. I was on a diet all the time because you want to wear nice clothes. I’ve always had quite slim legs but a little belly. I’m 5ft and just under 10st.
I eat quite sensibly I think. My appetite isn’t as big as it used to be and I’m a lot slimmer. Celia Birtwell answers our health quiz
Do you have any vices?
I smoke occasionally and I think ‘this is disgusting, put it out’ and then I light it up again later. A pack lasts about a week.
Are there any family problems?
My father died at the age of 74, much too young. He had a problem with his aorta (the main artery) and was slowly getting weaker. My mother lived to be about 84, but she was not in good shape for the last three years. She was in a nursing home and did not recognize us anymore.
What was the worst illness/injury?
I had a hip replacement about ten years ago. Then I got the stent and about two years ago a pacemaker. I get palpitations a lot, which is pretty scary.
Have you taken any pills?
A blood thinner (edoxaban), and doxazosin, bisoprolol and losartan for blood pressure. I also have a nitrolingual spray to calm my heart.
Have you ever had plastic surgery?
Never. I know you can get all wrinkled up and then get your lips pumped up, but I think that’s ridiculous.
Is sex important?
Not as bad as it was, but I have a great relationship with my sweetheart Andy. We’ve been together for about 38 years.
I’ve never had plastic surgery. I know you can be all wrinkled up and then get your lips pumped out, but I think that’s ridiculous
Hangover remedy?
Getting drunk is fun, but since I’ve had heart problems, I’ve been more careful.
What keeps you awake?
I sleep quite well. I like the electric blanket in the winter. I was the one who told Mr Hockney (David, the artist, a good friend) to get one and he raves about it now.
Do you want to live forever?
No. You can’t be too greedy about it…
- Celia’s new range can be found at joanieclothing.com