Kym Marsh has shared a poignant message about her stillborn son Archie to mark International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day.
The Coronation Street actress was inundated with love and support from fans after she posted an emotional statement to social media on Sunday.
Kym and Hollyoaks star Jamie Lomas lost their son Archie in 2009 after he was born prematurely at just 21 weeks.
Addressing their heartbreak, she said: “Today is international pregnancy and infant loss day. Today we remember not only our own angel but other people’s too.
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“It’s still such a taboo subject, baby loss, no one likes to talk about it, but you know, it’s the only thing that helps you find your way back from the darkness.
“It’s the only thing that helps you rebuild your jigsaw, helps you learn to accept what’s happened, accept you can’t bring your baby back, but learn that you’re not alone.
“It’s a lonely, lonely place if you’re silent. Encourage those who have lost to share, be there to listen and cry with them if they want to.
“Let’s break the silence.”
Fans showered Kym with love and support following her candid post, with one saying: “We miss and love you our little angels. Anyone reading this and going through this heartbreaking loss you’re not alone, talk to someone.”
Another said: “My Thoughts are with you ALL & your loved ones tonight & anyone else who has gone through this. Thinking of you.”
A third said: “I love you, you’re super brave, and I admire you for talking about things other people don’t. All the love and positive vibes for you.”
Kym, 41, also shared a poignant poem called The Cord with followers, which included the line: “Though you are gone, though you’re not here with me, the cord is still there, but no one can see.”
She later lit a candle in memory of Archie and other babies.
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Earlier this year, Kym praised her eldest children David and Emilie, then 13 and 11, for helping her get through the traumatic time.
She’s also mum to daughter Polly, six.
“I’m lucky to have three amazing kids,” she told The Sun. “David and Emilie are grown up now and Polly is a little whirlwind and a delight.”