Episode 2274: The Richie Allen Show Monday August 3rd 2026

After rounding up the day's top stories, Richie is joined by Lauren Hale. Nearly two years ago, Lauren and her partner Blake Pennell found themselves living through every family's worst nightmare. Blake became critically ill after contracting a severe E. coli infection. He suffered kidney failure, a stroke and spent weeks in intensive care, with doctors at one stage fearing the very worst. Against the odds, he survived, but survival was only the beginning of a long and difficult journey. Their story made national headlines.

Today, Lauren joins the show not to dwell on how Blake became ill or to point fingers, but to talk about what has happened since. While the public often sees someone leaving hospital as the happy ending, for many families it's the start of a very different battle. Nearly two years on, Lauren is still fighting to secure the specialist care and rehabilitation Blake needs, navigating a system she believes too often leaves patients and their loved ones to fend for themselves. It's a remarkable story of resilience, love and determination. Don't miss it. 

Support Blake if you can by donating here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/tsrne-help-support-blake