Actress Gemma Atkinson has shared an emotional message in memory of her later father David.
The former Emmerdale star lost her dad when she was just 17 after he suffered a heart attack.
The pregnant 34-year-old posted an old picture of herself as a baby sat on her dad’s shoulders to Instagram.
She spoke about her loss to highlight the charity Grief Encounter, which she is patron of.
Gemma captioned her post with: “As many of you know I am a patron of @griefencounter the bereavement support charity for children and young people. I took on the role because having lost my dad at age 17 I know just how heart-breaking and confusing grief is to navigate. I want to tell you about Grieftalk. A new, free and confidential bereavement support helpline from @griefencounter.
“You can Talk, Chat or Type on the phone, online or by email. Call 0808 802 0111. Or go to www.griefencounter.org.uk or [email protected], available from 9am-9pm five days a week.”
She also urged people not to suffer in silence if they have suffered a loss, adding: “Don’t suffer alone if you are grieving the loss of a loved one. Take the help. I wish this service was available when we lost dad ❤️.”
Gemma, who is expecting her first child with Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka Marquez, recently spoke on her sadness that her dad won’t get to meet her child.
Read more: Pregnant Gemma Atkinson shows off unborn baby’s first bed
Earlier this month, she wrote on Instagram: “It dawned on me today the wonderful relationship I had with my grandparents when I was growing up, and then it hit me my dad won’t get to meet his Grandchild.
“Seems crazy… I blame the pregnancy hormones but today has been a bloody rollercoaster. Fits of laughter to sobbing. Thankfully, I had cookies 😂 🤦🏼♀️🎢.”
Read more: Gemma Atkinson reveals hardships of pregnancy
Gemma and Gorka announced their exciting baby news in February, a year after they confirmed their romance after meeting on Strictly in 2016.
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