Shirley Ballas has been flooded with support as she shared her heartbreak over her brother's death on the anniversary of his passing. The Strictly Come Dancing star has bravely spoken before about her brother, David Rich, and how he took his own life a number of years ago.
Back in June, the BBC One dance contest's head judge appeared on This Morning where she was speaking about her involvement in an interactive exhibition called The Last Photo, by the Campaign Against Living Miserably (Calm). The poignant display featured Shirley's brother, David, who took his own life in 2003 at the age of 44.
During the chat host Phillip Schofield told Shirley that he could see the 'pain etched' in her face over the loss of her brother. Asked about David, Shirley said: "First of all he was a really large man. He was kind of like a powerhouse person on the housing estate. Everybody loved him. He was a brother, was like a father... he was everything to me.
"We talked every day at four o'clock. He really was the last person that I would ever think would take his own life." She added: "When I look back now, there were warning signs, little things he'd say or comments he would make and I'd say, 'You'll be fine,' because you didn't talk about it."
On Monday (December 5), Shirley marked 19 years since David's death with a post on Instagram. She shared a photo alongside her mum as they stood alongside David's photo at the outdoor exhibit earlier this year. She also shared a recent image of the pair with David's daughter, Mary, amid festive decorations at what appeared to be at Shirley's home.
"On the 5th of December all those years ago. My dear brother decided to take his own life," Shirley heartbreakingly typed alongside her post. "To this day I’ll never be free of 'What could I have done more'. Dearest David time goes so fast where have the years gone, you are missed on a daily basis. Talked about often and never forgotten.
"We celebrated your life yesterday, your daughter Mary, your mum and me. Still so difficult that you are not here. But I’m sure you would be so proud of Mary in so many ways. I’ll continue to work for @calmzone to help others like you a constant reminder to always watch out for those who are feeling low. Love you so much David you are always in our hearts. Continue to R.I.P."
The TV star added: "Any one out there with thoughts of loneliness or any other dark thoughts please reach out #calm to all, let’s be vigilant on checking in on our loved ones and friends this december and always. #suicide #suicideprevention #family #brother #son #uncle #dad you are loved."
Shirley was quickly shown support by her Strictly co-stars with professional dancers Nancy Xu and Carlos Gu among those simply sharing hearts in the comments section. Her fans were also sharing their love as well as their own stories.
@jane.brant.9887 said: "Lost my brother 3 years ago to suicide. The heartache & questioning for answers never leaves. Thinking of you & your family." @lindyloo6704 wrote: "Thinking of you and your family, thankyou for continuing to raise awareness of this it will save lives, lots of love."
@sam030475 commented: "Sending love. I read about this heartbreaking part of yours and your family's life in your book and sobbed xxxxx thinking of you all and all those who have suffered the same terrible loss." @alison_mcilwaine2000 replied: "Sending you and your mum the biggest hug." @katvonb07 added: "I can only imagine the pain you and your family feel. God bless. Sending love and strength."
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