JOEY Essex has always had the support of his nan throughout his rise to fame.
The Love Island bombshell has opened up about his mother’s suicide in the past. Here’s everything you need to know.
Linda Sims is a devoted grandmother to brother and sister duo, Joey and Frankie Essex.
She has been a great support to the siblings after the death of her daughter and their mother, Tina.
Linda is also nan to Chloe, Frankie, Demi and Charlie Sims.
Linda’s grandchildren are often seen posting about her on social media.
She currently resides in Chigwell, Essex.
Throughout her TV appearances Linda has revealed she is proud of her grandchildren’s antics.
Speaking to The Sun about Joey in 2013, she said : “I must be the proudest grandmother in Britain at the moment. He is doing so brilliantly.”
Despite not being a Towie regular, Linda would appear for special occasions such as grandaughter Chloe’s 40th birthday.
Joey has been more subtle in praising his nan.
The Love Island star appeared at her side in the documentary Joey Essex: Grief And Me, which focuses on his recovery from the trauma following his mother’s death.
Tina Sims took her own life when her son was just 10 years old.
Joey and sister Frankie were then left in the care of their father Donny.
Joey told the documentary: “I remember the day when I got told my mum was gone.
I know I’ll never get over the trauma, but I’m just proud and glad I’ve started to face it.
Joey Essex
“I remember my dad bending down and grabbing my head and telling me my mum was gone.
“I’ll never forget that. I remember it like it was yesterday.”
Speaking of his grief, Joey said: “It’s been hard going through this whole process, but I feel a massive weight has lifted off my shoulders.
“I know I’ll never get over the trauma, but I’m just proud and glad I’ve started to face it.”
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
