BBC star shares concerning update after undergoing open-heart surgery (2025)

A BBC television star has revealed he was told off by an online follower after he went swimming too early following his open heart surgery just seven weeks ago

A BBC star has issued a health update after undergoing a triple heart-bypass. DIY SOS star Mark Millar underwent open heart surgery seven weeks ago. Now, he has issued a warning to his followers online in a video update.

The 55-year-old TV star survived a heart attack while cold water swimming off Clevedon's coast, in north Somerset, at the end of last year. He recently explained he has been "struggling mentally" but is continuing to recover well.

On Sunday he admitted he has been cold water swimming again for the first time since his operation. However, he was warned by some users on his Instagram and responded to the message.

He started his response: "Hi there. I put a post up yesterday about me going for my first swim post-op. Seven weeks, actually, post op. And I shouldn't have done it.

"I've slightly ticked off somebody who follows me [who works in the cardio unit] - and I should be waiting 12 weeks until I'm completely healed so that, one, I don't damage the sternum again, and also, I don't attract any infection.

"So please don't swim before 12 weeks. I'm sorry for doing that. I don't know what to do for the next few weeks exercise wise... more walking."

He was met with positive messages of support by his followers. One user told him: "It's common, to want to do more than advised after any major surgery, but especially heart. My son is the same, after ever procedure or heart op! Give your body time."

However, another sternly said: "Go for a walk instead! Think about how lucky you are to be alive… thank all the medical staff who helped you survive whilst looking around! Enjoy recovery!"

He had recently apologised to fans for being 'a bit quiet'. He took to Instagram saying: "I've been a bit quiet about my post op recovery, but I'm doing well and healing well, but I've struggled a bit mentally because I feel vulnerable."

As he pointed to his scar, he went on: "I've been open from here to the top of my stomach so I get a bit worried about someone or me knocking it. I'm just about to have my first swim and I am very excited."

Mark suffered a heart attack while open water swimming and had previously claimed that as soon as the pain started it felt 'like a lifetime' for him to swim back to the shore with help from his friends.

He was then rushed to Bristol Royal Infirmary. Speaking to the BBC, he said: "It felt like someone was tightening a belt around me. If it was not for my friends and my £15 float, I am not sure if I would be here today."

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