Jonnie Irwin has admitted he made a huge mistake on his life insurance policy which added pressure onto him and his family.
The presenter was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in August 2020 and first noticed symptoms while filming on Channel 4's A Place in the Sun in Italy.
Irwin complained of blurry vision while driving before tests revealed he had lung cancer which had spread to his brain.
Speaking about his diagnosis, he said: "Within a week of flying back from filming, I was being given six months to live.
Jonnie Irwin was diagnosed with lung cancer in August 2020
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“I had to go home and tell my wife, who was looking after our babies, that she was on her own pretty much."
The presenter had taken out life insurance which means his family will be taken care of after he passes away.
Following his diagnosis, the dad has explained that he made a big mistake in taking the policy out.
"You want to make sure they're looked after, but what I didn't realise is there's a gap and critical illness covers this gap,” he told the BBC.
"When you get a terminal diagnosis it covers you for when you are gone, and probably for your last few months.
“But terminal diagnoses can go on for years, and your illness obviously affects your work.
“So if you're unable to work and you're waiting for this pay-out, who's going to pay the rent or mortgage?
"Critical illness is a policy you take alongside that kicks in as soon as you're ill.
Presenter Jonnie Irwin is urging others to check their life insurance
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“I didn't take that, and that put a lot of pressure on me, having to work on days I didn't really want to work.
"That is the one mistake I made, and I'd say to everyone to get it out. Even if you haven't got dependents, get it out to look after yourself."
Irwin has continued to work as much as possible while enjoying life with his family.
He also sold many of his properties for financial security and urged parents to evaluate their finances every few years in case the worst happens.
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