When Steve Irwin tragically died in 2006, the whole world mourned with his wife Terri Irwin and their young kids, Bindi and Robert, who were only 8 and 2 at the time. Terri went on to lead the Crocodile Hunter’s mission for wildlife conservation at Australia Zoo while raising her children as a single mom — an impressive feat! And in a vulnerable new post, Terri shared just how she carried on after the death of her husband.
“Being a mum is the best part of my life,” Terri wrote on Instagram on Sunday. “When Steve passed, it was not a burden being a single mum, it was actually my children that gave me purpose, courage, and happiness every day.”
It would be completely understandable to struggle with parenting and grieving at the same time. But Terri focused on her kids, who helped her get through the dark time. She continued, “Bindi and Robert are the reason I can stand strong, meet every challenge, and embrace every adventure. As a mother, I am truly blessed.” Aww! We’re crying because this is so sweet.
Terri also shared several photos of her and her kids throughout the years, including posing with a kangaroo, riding a boat, holding a huge snake, hiking, and more adventures. It’s clear Terri never let a tragic circumstance get in the way of helping others and getting the most out of life.
Bindi commented on the sweet post, “I love these beautiful photos and memories. Thank you for ALWAYS being there for me and Robert. And now for Grace. It means more than I can possibly describe. I love you.” Robert also commented on the post, “Love you mum!”
“You are my widow role model. You raised them well, kept Steve alive for ALL of us, and continued to build the dream. Thank you for sharing all of it with us.????” someone else commented. Another wrote, “Having been in the same situation, I completely empathize. Having my daughters with me gave me purpose and courage to continue putting one foot in front of the other. You are a great inspiration to many women in our situation. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.????”
On Mother’s Day, Bindi shared a throwback photo of her mom holding a crocodile along with a special tribute. “Happy Mother’s Day to this amazing woman. My mum. Her commitment to conservation and making the world a better place inspires me every day. I love you, @terriirwincrikey,” she wrote.
Now, Bindi is a mom herself (she shares 3-year-old daughter Grace Warrior with husband Chandler Powell), and she is following her mom’s example in parenting and keeping her dad’s memory alive.
“I see so much of dad [in] our beautiful daughter Grace,” the 25-year-old told E! News at the Steve Irwin Gala on May 11. “She has so much fiery, passionate energy about her. She just is a determined woman and she never stops moving. I mean, she’s 3 so she is a very busy girl.”
Bindi added, “She thinks that it’s her job to make all the make sure all the animals are cared for. She is the kindest and most beautiful soul while also having this fiery energy that’s like Dad and I love it. I love it so much.”
Terri echoed the sentiments, telling E!, “Watching Grace is like watching Steve because Steve never stopped being 3 years old. He had that wonder of nature and discovery and curiosity every single day.”
“And to see that in Grace,” she added, “I want to nurture that and make sure she hangs on to that forever.”
Before you go, check out what these celebrities had to say about being raised by single moms.
