Chris Bath breaks down on air after announcing colleague’s death
TV presenter Chris Bath has broken down on air after announcing the news of fellow colleague and journalist Nick Way.
Nick Way, a Perth journalist, lost his battle with motor neurone disease at the age of 63 on September 23.
The heartbreaking news was shared on Channel Ten’s Sunday evening program, with Chris shedding some tears.
“The Ten News First family is mourning revered Perth journalist Nick Way, who has lost his fight with motor neurone disease,” she said.
A tribute package was also played, highlighting Nick’s incredible career as a journalist.
“Nick Way was a gifted storyteller,” the voiceover said.
“Over three decades, he never failed to connect deeply with those he reported on, often staying in close contact with them long after the news cameras had stopped rolling.
“His stories shone through even through our darkest chapters, the Bali bombings. Many of the survivors still call Nick a very good friend.
“Nick always gave a voice to those who struggled to find their own. Championing so many wonderful causes and when it came to his own health battle, he dug in and raised tens of thousands of dollars for research.
“Here at Ten, Nick taught so many the ropes. His beautiful smile and voice we will never forget.
“To his wife Karen and loved ones, we are sending our deepest sympathies.”
The tribute package ended and the camera cut back to a very emotional Chris who said: “Vale Nick, and our condolences to his family”.
Karen, Nick’s wife of 29 years said her husband was staying at a specialised care facility in Cottesloe while she was in New Zealand for her nephew’s wedding.
Nick suddenly “had a turn” and died of a suspected blood clot in his lung.
“It was like he waited for me to be here in New Zealand to be with all my family and he's made the decision that it's time to go,” Karen told The West Australian.
“He wanted to stay as independent as he could, but he just couldn't do things for himself anymore and he lost the ability to talk last August. Talking was his favourite thing and he loved being the centre of attention.
“But he had a great life, we had so much travel and he did so many things a lot of people never get the opportunity to do. We've got lots of really great memories.”
Images: Facebook/Ten