Lauren Goodger has described parts of her life as a 'storm' she never asked for, saying she endures 'nights of fear' and anxiety as she marked the third anniversary of her late daughter Lorena’s death during scenes on a reality show.
Lorena was born in July 2022 and died minutes after birth when her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck during labor. In an Instagram post accompanying a black-and-white image, Goodger spoke about living with fear and pressure and said she did not pretend to understand it all, but stressed that she remains hopeful and determined for her family.
Opening up to her co-stars Junaid Ahmed, Saffron Lempriere, Amy Childs, Freddie Bently, and Livvy Jay in recent scenes, Goodger described the anniversary as a hard day. She said Lorena should be here and noted the difficulty is intensified because Larose’s birthday is approaching in two weeks. "Obviously it's a really hard day for me. Obviously three years ago I lost Lorena in labour. She should be here and I think it's harder because it's Larose's birthday in two weeks," the star told her friends, fighting back tears.
Her friends offered support as the moment grew emotional. Saffron Lempriere asked how the month had been for Goodger, and Goodger replied that the pain has persisted even as she has tried to carry on. "And it's like, it's a hard month for me. And I hold this pain inside because she hasn't got a sister when she should have a sister. It's so cruel. I don't understand any of it," she said. The group rallied around her, with Amy Childs offering a practical line of support.
"But Lorena's with you every day, Lauren, do you know that? She's with you like.." one friend said, prompting Goodger to explain why she has chosen to speak out this year. "Last year I stayed in with Larose in the garden and now I have to get out and talk about her rather than hiding. I think that's why it's even harder for me because I am on my own," she admitted. "So that's why I've done this and it means a lot to me that yous have come."
The discussion highlighted the ongoing emotional toll of bereavement and the importance of support from friends and family as Goodger continues to navigate parenting after loss. A friend reiterated that help would be available at all hours, and Goodger thanked those present for their encouragement.
If you have been affected by anything in this article, please contact the UK Child Bereavement line on 0800 02 888 40 or the The Lullaby Trust on 0808 8026868.