HK singer Josie Ho says husband nearly died after rupturing aorta last year

Hong Kong singer Josie Ho, 48, says her husband slipped into a coma for 5 weeks after rupturing an aorta. Photo: Josie Ho/Instagram

Hong Kong singer Josie Ho recently opened up about the near-fatal health battle her husband, actor Conroy Chan, went through last year.

In the latest episode of Carol Cheng's talk show, The Do Show, Ho revealed that Chan had been hospitalised due to a ruptured aorta – an injury he sustained while moving a heavy item during his visit to Australia last October.

"The doctors cut the severed part of the aorta and replaced it with a plastic tube to keep him alive," Ho, 48, said.

According to Ho, Chan, 50, had major swelling post-surgery and slipped into a coma. His urine also contained blood and he had to receive over 10 bags of blood transfused to him daily.

"The doctors told me they have done everything they could and that it was now up to (Chan) to live. They also said his chances of surviving the week were very slim," she shared.

During the interview, Ho recalled her husband's feet turning cold and purple.

She then recounted the doctors' warning that such change might indicate diabetic feet, a condition potentially requiring amputation.

In an attempt to spread her body heat to keep him warm, the singer said that she would wear heat packs and hug Chan's legs and joints.

After five weeks in a coma, Chan eventually regained consciousness and later returned to Hong Kong for further treatment.

Although his condition has greatly improved, Ho said that Chan's path to recovery is still long and rocky.

Apparently, Chan's urethra was ruptured due to complications during the surgery and he has to rely on a drainage bag and undergo regular dialysis treatment.

Ho shared that her husband suffered from depression because of this.

"I just wish he can regain his freedom... to be able to urinate, defecate and walk normally like any other person.

"I don't want him to rely on a drainage bag for the rest of his life, which is why we will continue with surgeries," she said.

At the end of the interview, Ho called her husband on the phone where the latter assured audiences that he was much better now.

"I am undergoing physical therapy four times weekly. Josie takes good care of me, and I am very touched.

"This entire experience has taught me to appreciate life more, and I now understand the significance of wishing everyone good health during the New Year," he said.

Ho and Chan tied the knot in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia.

It is reported that Ho's father, late Macau gambling king Stanley Ho, prepared HK$20mil (RM11.9mil) as dowry for the wedding.