Kate Ferdinand has thanked fans for their support following the heartbreaking news that she had lost her unborn second child after 12 weeks of a previously unannounced pregnancy.
Former TOWIE star Kate shared an image to her Story of her and stepdaughter Tia wearing matching beaded and smiley face bracelets, alongside the caption: "I've been taking some time off of my phone to be with my family but have just caught up on all your messages - thank you so much for all your love and well wishes," she wrote.
The 31-year old, who shares son Cree with former England footballer husband Rio, revealed the news to her 1.4 million Instagram followers on Wednesday.
At the time she posted a black and white image of her legs up resting in hospital alongside the caption: "The last time I was in this hospital I was having Cree, but this time it was because our baby had no heartbeat in our 12 week scan and I had to have surgery.
"We were so excited and planning a space for our new baby in our family, we just couldn’t wait to share our news with you all, but unfortunately sometimes life just doesn’t go as we plan."
She continued: "So much to say, but somehow I can’t find the words. Absolutely devastated and heartbroken… but couldn't be more grateful for the hugs I got from my big(er) babies coming through the door when we arrived home."
Celebrity pals were quick to offer their comforting words to the star, with Pretty Little Thing director Molly-Mae Hague writing: "I’m so beyond sorry Kate. Sending you all the in the world."
Broadcaster Kate Lawler commented: "Oh Kate. I’m so deeply sorry for you and your lovely family. Sending you so much love and hugs x."
TOWIE's Sam Faiers added: " I'm so sorry darling, sending so much love."
Female followers who could relate to the tragedy also sent their well wishes, with one replying: "No loss is easy, we lost baby one at 11 weeks and baby 2 at 8 weeks. Thank you for sharing so many women feel ashamed or alone... your sharing will help someone."
Another wrote: "I’m so sorry for your loss darling, you have my whole heart, I completely understand everything you feel and are going through, I’ve lost too and I still think it to this day."
A third said: "I know that feeling only too well, nothing anyway can say will take that pain away x."
Kate and Rio married in September 2019.
The former Manchester United ace also has three children he shares with his first wife Rebecca Ellison, who tragically died of breast cancer in 2015.
Kate gave birth to Cree by an emergency C-section, which at the time she called "a bit of a whirlwind".
She had previously said that she and Rio were "torn" over the decision to have another baby just 18 months after they became parents to Cree.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at childbereavementuk.org or you can call them on 0800 02 888 40.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct 0207 29 33033.
