New The Voice UK coach Tom Fletcher and his wife Giovanna Fletcher have sadly lost a beloved family member.
Giovanna, who previously won I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, revealed that they had to say a “final goodbye” to their cherished family cat, Leia, on Wednesday (February 28). Giovanna posted a sweet photo of Leia on Instagram, along with snaps of the cat with their three kids – Buzz, Buddy and Max.
She wrote: “This morning we had to say our final goodbye to our beautiful, dopey and loving Leia who has been with us for nearly 17 years.” She added that Leia had been a constant companion through many life changes and loved lounging on their sofa, especially if there was chocolate around.
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Giovanna also shared a heartwarming story about Leia’s heroism. When their other cat Marvin fell ill years ago and needed an urgent blood transfusion, Leia was used as a donor since no other donors could be called in the middle of the night, reports The Manchester Evening News.
(Image: mrsgifletcher/Instagram)
According to Giovanna, Leia just purred throughout the procedure, enjoying the attention from the staff. “She remained a donor for a few years – until she had kidney failure and needed the help of a donor herself,” Giovanna wrote.
“Leia always had so much patience and love for the kids. She never moaned at being constantly picked up. She never grumbled when they’d pop her on sledges and then take her for a ride.
“In fact I’d say she had a ‘what are these fools doing now,’ attitude about the whole thing. When we moved a few years ago it was like she’d become 10 years younger. She had a newfound love for the outdoors and loved watching – she was always ready.”
(Image: mrsgifletcher/Instagram)
Giovanna added: “Navigating death with little ones is certainly heartbreaking. There’s been wailing, there’s been pacing, and there’s been talk of a memory box. Princess Leia – you have given us so much love. You were so loved. We love you.”
The comments section was quickly filled with messages of love and support for Giovanna, Tom and their three boys over their loss. Former Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown said: “Oh my darling I’m so sorry. I know Princess L was a very special girl for you all.”
Another follower said: “Sending you all so much love at this heartbreaking time, it’s such a huge loss losing a furry family member. Leia sounds like a truly amazing girl.” Someone else commented: “Awh Gi and Tom and kids I am so sorry for your loss.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Another fan wrote: “Oh no! I’m so sorry. Thinking of you all.” As someone else responded: “Aw, so sorry to read this. Fly high Leia.”
In happier news, Tom has been seen in Salford after joining The Voice UK with his McFly bandmate Danny Jones. They’re the first duo to share a chair on the show. They’ll be joining Will.i.Am, Tom Jones and new coach LeAnn Rimes, following the departure of Olly Murs and Ann-Marie.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
