Katie Price clapped back at trolls who criticised her for considering putting her disabled son Harvey into residential care, telling them to “think twice” before judging her.
Price, 40, said 16-year-old Harvey, who is blind, autistic and suffers from Prader–Willi syndrome, is becoming a danger to himself having smashed TVs, windows and eight iPads this year.
The former glamour model posted a video of her son, who she shares with ex-footballer Dwight Yorke, in a car as they made their way home from a joint interview on Victoria Derbyshire.
She received a torrent of abuse after referring to herself as “a real honest human who genuinely wants to help people” with some accusing her of wanting to “replace” Harvey after announcing plans to adopt a Nigerian orphan.
“I’ve never exposed Harvey kicking off and when his behaviour is very challenging so if people knew how difficult it is you would certainly shut your mouth and think twice judging me!” she posted.
“Harvey is my total life and NOBODY knows how much I love him and what amazing bond we have! It takes a special person to care and look after a person with complex needs so frankly I suggest go and help in a care home kids school with complex needs elderly and then comment what’s its like x.”
Fans hailed Price a “true inspiration,” with one saying they have “nothing but respect” for her.
One commented: “Tears fall from eyes to see how strong u are Kate keep up the good work.”
Another posted: “I think anyone can see how much you love Harv and everything you do is for him but no one knows what it's like unless they were in that situation.”
A third leapt to her defence, writing: “Haters!!! If you have nothing nice to say,then don’t say anything at all.”
Price pleaded with viewers for advice on putting children into residential care during an appearance on Victoria Derbyshire on Wednesday.
“For the first time ever now I’m thinking he might have to go residential Monday to Friday,” she said. “If he knows he kicks off in the morning the driver won’t take him and he’s missing out on his education. He just wants to be with me all the time.
“I’ve never had respite. I don’t have a carer. I do it all myself. But I hate it because he is my life. I’ve got to do what’s best for him and it won’t be forever. When he’s smashing things and the kids are scared because he’s big I’ve got to do it for him.”
She finished: “If there is anyone out there who could give me advice and let me know how they cope when they go residential. Message me on Twitter.”
Price also has son Junior, 13, and Princess, 11, with ex-husband Peter Andre and Jett, five, and Bunny, four, with Kieran Hayler. She recently revealed plans to adopt a Nigerian orphan.
