Ireland AM presenter Karen Koster has paid an emotional tribute to her late mum Brenda who passed away suddenly last month.
The Virgin Media host told viewers a few weeks ago that her mum had passed and that it felt "completely surreal". Karen took to social media today to reveal how she was dealing with the grief she's experiencing after Brenda's passing, describing it as a "tidal wave".
Sharing pictures of her mum, she said: "It’s been seven weeks since Mum’s funeral and I’m still wondering when the words 'my mum died suddenly' will no longer feel so alien coming out of my mouth. I had no idea about the tidal wave that is grief and how it ebbs and flows.
Read more: 'He'd be the best grandad' - Bonnie Ryan opens up about moving on after dad Gerry's death
"You’ve already seen her wave you goodbye for the last time, already planned the last big family occasion, or hung up the phone to her forever. The finality of death takes my breath away."
Karen went on to say that there was "mercy" in how her mum passed away, explaining that she and her family never saw Brenda ill or never had to wait anxiously for test results.
She said: "Tending to the beautiful garden she adored which was a playground for her cherished grandkids. Caring & nurturing til the end. I’m so grateful I had my mum for 41 years as my constant anchor, I just wish our kids could have had Nana for a little bit longer.
"Wise, beautiful, gentle, witty, allergic to texting, addicted to reality TV, never saying no to a day out, always delighted you’d popped in."
Karen then extended her thanks to those who reached out to her with messages of support.
She added: "Especially those of you who are further along this journey and are moving forward with grief, remembering the happy times when the sadness wants to bear down. I truly appreciate every word. May our mum’s gentle soul rest in peace."
READ NEXT:
Love Island's Laura Whitmore quits BBC job ahead of expected new career move
RTE Ryan Tubridy confirms radio replacements as he plans to go 'off the grid'
Ireland AM star Joe Shannon was 'given last rites' after thinking bowel cancer was wind
James Kavanagh says that his frequent panic attacks are a ‘violent' experience
Martin King and wife Jenny McCarthy's 'best news' after brain tumour surgery
