Jonnie Irwin’s widow, Jess Holmes, has given an update on how she has been coping since the death of her husband – admitting she can’t get used to life without him.
Irwin was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020, and just two years later announced the terminal illness had spread to his brain.
He was initially given six months to live, but defied the odds and made his illness public – receiving a flurry of support from his loyal fans.
The 50-year-old regularly updated viewers on his condition after the cancer spread, bravely sharing parts of his journey before he died on Friday, February 2, 2024.
When the news of his death was first announced, Holmes posted a lengthy caption on her Instagram account where she shared her love for Irwin and how much she and their boys were going to miss him.
Today, she issued an update on how she was feeling and noted that “it doesn’t feel real”, alongside an image of some grassy hills with the sun beating down.
She said: “It still doesn’t feel real. The sadness is huge. I can’t even let myself think what another week without Jonnie will be like let alone another year another 10 years.
“I have been truly touched by all the support from friends and strangers. But nothing compares to how I have been picked up by my family and Jonnie's sisters, your support and love means everything to me.
“I am loving watching the boys enjoy some days in the sun and having a change of scene is just what we needed.”
Fans of Irwin’s flocked to her page to give their support, as one user noted: “His love will guide you always.”
Jonnie left behind an important message for his boys
“Thinking of you and your lovely boys with love prayers and strength,” another said before a third added: “Love and strength to you Jess. Hold tight, one day at a time. Enjoy the sun.”
A fourth fan penned: “The world is sad with you…one foot in front of the other…sending love.”
“You and the boys have been in my thoughts during this time of grief. Words are not enough. Jonnie was an inspiration to so many people and he’ll never be forgotten. Sending hugs,” one sad user expressed. (sic)
Holmes and Irwin have three sons together, Rex, four, and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac – with the TV presenter having one dying wish for his boys.
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Jess gave an update after his death
He told Hello magazine last year: “I want them to believe they can do anything. I want them to be confident, but believe in yourselves, because you can do anything. I’ve seen their capabilities and they’re boundless.”
The message to his sons read: “Family first, always look after your family. Your brothers, your mother… put them first.
“Support them, love them, and now that they’re so much more important than anyone else.”