Strictly's Shirley Ballas issues tearful update after saying 'goodbye' to grandson

Shirley Ballas has opened up about the challenges of having a long-distance relationship with her son and grandson, who are based in Los Angeles. In her column for Womans Weekly UK, the 64 year old Strictly Come Dancing star discussed how her family dynamic is impacted by the distance.

Expressing her affection for her little grandson Banksi, born just this past November 2023, she shared insights into how she plans to impart her values onto him despite the miles between them.

Talking about her commitment to family, the beloved TV presenter mentioned: "I hope to make as much time as possible for my grandson. He lives with my son and wife in LA, so it's not easy, but I go out as often as I can. The last time I went, I worked early mornings and babysat all afternoon."

Shedding light on the virtual connection she maintains, she said: "Outside of that, I see him every day on FaceTime. He tries to give me a kiss through the screen, and it's an unbelievable feeling. My heart drops whenever I have to leave him."

Reflecting on the emotional aspects of their reunions and departures, she added: "Maybe it's because I'm older, or the fact I'm leaving my son and grandson; it's even more emotional and I end up blubbering like a 10-year-old. I may move out there one day, but for the moment I'm focused on my Mum.", reports Surrey Live.

Identifying herself playfully as "glam-ma", Shirley said that assuming this new role has transformed her "in many ways", albeit noting that, while it hasnt significantly strengthened the bond with her son, it has led to sharing more stories between them.

She shared with a hint of nostalgia: "When Mark tells me stories about Banksi, I tell him tales about when he was younger, I think he realizes how difficult it is being a parent, and particularly for me travelling around the world."

In conversations beyond her maternal bond, Shirley has opened up about her personal health journey. On the 'Mid Point' podcast with Gabby Logan, she revealed a private battle.

Shirley confided: "I've got this disorder in my spine, degenerative spine which I haven't really talked about with anybody yet. But it is three types of operation. And I don't want to do the operations so I am doing anti-inflammatory."

Delving into her wellness routine, she added: "So I am trying to do more juicing I am doing ice bathing. Oh yeah, I have got a brass monkey ice bath. I can go up to about four minutes now, I have built up to in the freezing, freezing cold at 5am."