X Factor star reveals son's devastating health struggle: 'As parents we were in denial'

Sam Bailey, crowned winner of The X Factor in 2013, has opened up about her personal heartache over her son's health struggle.The 46 year old became a household name after winning the 10th series of the ITV reality show, and has become a respected professional singer and theatre star over the last decade.

But now she's shared an update on her personal struggle at home while dealing with her teenage son Tommy's health diagnosis.The 14 year old was diagnosed with autism and dyspraxia in 2020 and Sam has been fighting to get him and their family the right help and support ever since, she revealed.

Speaking to GB News, mum-of-three Sam explained the youngster's transition from primary to secondary school was especially challenging for the family, and said Tommy "really, really struggled" with school. "I knew the transition from primary school to secondary school was going to be difficult for him," she told the TV channel. "And I think as parents we were kind of in denial that there was anything untoward that was different or anything and we were told that he would really struggle and to get a diagnosis." Sam said the family were fortunate enough to be able to take Tommy for a private diagnosis, but was then left struggling trying to "prove that he can't be in a mainstream school". "He would bang his head against a wall" she continued. "He really, really struggled at school." In December, Sam also revealed Tommy had suffered "several seizures", so was wearing an epilepsy watch to help monitor it.

Writing on her Instagram, she said: "We don’t know what has caused them, we don’t know when another one will happen. We have all done research on seizures and have had lots of advice. "Trying not to be “google doctors” but it’s so.