Melbourne radio host Craig “Huggy” Huggins revealed that his mother died of COVID-19 on Tuesday in an emotional on-air speech that ended with a plea to comply with lockdown measures.
Huggins, who has been with Gold 104.3 for 29 years, shared the personal news with his listeners as a message to help avoid the spread and keep each other safe.
He said he finished early after getting the call that his elderly mother died Tuesday in a nursing home.
“Through Gold 104.3 I’ve always felt that you and I have had that sort of relationship where we can tell each other anything,’’ said Huggins, who presents the radio show weekdays from 9am-12pm.
This morning, while on-air at GOLD104.3, Craig Huggins was delivered the news that his mother Joyce had passed away with COVID-19.
Huggy’s message to all Melburnians is to wear a mask, social distance and do the right thing.
Hear the full message, here: https://t.co/2HvDHdi6xF pic.twitter.com/a1Ip7Tz3Gm— Gold 104.3 Melbourne (@gold1043) July 28, 2020
“So I want to tell you that I’m finishing early today. In fact I’m going home right now.
“Sadly I’ve just received a call to let me know that my elderly mum Joyce has passed away at a nursing home with COVID-19.
“There’s no need to ring me, I know your thoughts are with me and my family.
“But I just want to ask you to be careful. Wear your mask, social distance and do the right thing. Many people don’t know anyone that’s had the virus, but now you do — Huggy’s mum. Stay safe and I’ll be back in a new few days.”