Entertainment
Jake Quickenden reveals baby son has filled ‘void’ since dad and brother’s death: ‘My heart is full again’
Jake Quickenden’s baby boy Leo has filled the void left in his life by his late father Paul and brother Oliver, he’s revealed.
The Dancing on Ice winner, 32, welcomed his first child with girlfriend Sophie Church in February this year.
Jake’s father Paul died in 2008 and his younger brother Oliver also died in 2012 at the age of 19 after they both suffered from bone cancer.
And, while the I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! runner-up is saddened his parent and sibling won’t meet his son, he’s delighted to have found happiness again since his birth.
The former X Factor contestant wrote on Instagram: ‘For years after losing my Dad and Oliver I really struggled being 100% happy, I self-sabotaged things and was full of anxiety and worry but honestly since Leo has been born I feel like a void has been filled.
‘That little bit of heart that was broken away has found its way back and my heart is full again.
‘I will always miss my Dad and Oliver and I’m gutted they won’t meet Leo and watch me be the best Dad I could be but I feel Leo had little parts of them both.’
The singer added that he values family and friends much more than material possessions he has, adding: ‘Keep those people close and appreciate them! Life is short so love with the fullest heart.’
Jake recently heaped praise on Leo after the newborn was the target of cruel trolls on social media who called him ‘ugly’.
Taking to Instagram to share an adorable video of the tot resting on a sofa cushion, he wrote: ‘I can’t stop staring at him…. sorry for the over posting but I’m just so in love…
‘5 weeks on Friday!! Little warrior!! Also thanks for all the support over the last week! Social media can be a dark place, but it’s also full of amazing people!! #dad #baby #babyboy #family #love.’
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