Gemma Collins’ ‘schizophrenic’ grandmother’s tragic life is uncovered as the TOWIE star and her mum break down on Who Do You Think You Are? – and viewers are left in tears
As a genealogist delving into the rich tapestry of human history, I find myself captivated by the poignant tale of Gemma and her quest to unravel the mysteries of her family’s past on “Who Do You Think You Are?”. Her story is one that resonates deeply with me, as I too have felt the pull towards understanding the threads that bind us all together.
During a poignant episode of Who Do You Think You Are?, held on Thursday, the heartbreaking life story of Gemma Collins’ grandmother who struggled with mental health issues similar to schizophrenia was revealed.
Previously known “TOWIE” star, aged 43, narrated the tale about her mom, Joan, whose biological mother was compelled to surrender her to a foster home.
Joan had lived most of her life thinking that her mother – also called Joan – had abandoned her.
As a lifestyle advisor, I’ve come across heartrending stories that highlight the importance of mental health awareness. In this particular case, I found myself following a woman whose life took an unexpected turn due to misunderstood mental health issues. It seems she was potentially coerced into relinquishing her precious daughter, a decision that left deep scars. The team on the show uncovered this heartbreaking situation, underscoring the need for empathy, understanding, and proper care when addressing mental health challenges.
From the age of 13, Gemma’s grandma frequently moved between psychiatric facilities, and she was ultimately diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia – however, this diagnosis is now under question.
A professional commented, stating that had she become pregnant as a teenager outside of marriage, she might have been advised to relinquish custody of Joan. Additionally, due to concerns about her mental wellbeing, she was often restricted in her interactions with her own child.
Joan choked up while discussing her past, saying, “I often find myself questioning… My foster family was the one I knew as my own. I entered foster care just two weeks old.
As Joan and Gemma perused the foster statement, they found themselves overcome with emotion, expressing, “This is quite a load. It’s an intense blend of feelings.
Joan herself went on to explain that she had been placed in a children’s home when she was thirteen years old due to truancy, and her voice trembled as she recounted the times she was bullied there, causing her to weep once more.
With teary eyes, she explained: “I carried my luggage inside, which immediately triggered memories. The other children began to strip me of my clothing. To me, it seemed like a confinement of some sort. After that incident, I returned home.
About her biological mother, Joan mentioned: “She visited me on one occasion, but that was the only time I met my real mother. We shared a cup of tea together before she departed. In total, I’ve seen her just three times.
Audience were deeply moved by X during the heartrending moments: “I can’t imagine not knowing one’s family history; it must be so challenging for her. #WhatDoYouThink
‘That’s so sad #wdytya.’,
‘God, poor Gemma’s mom #wdytya.’,
At the beginning of the show, Gemma expressed her thoughts: “My mom was placed in foster care. I wonder why she was abandoned at the hospital instead of being retrieved. Why didn’t they try to come back for her? She never discusses it. I believe it’s too distressing for her to revisit those memories.
The clip ended with Gemma saying: ‘It will be nice to know where my mum is from. And just put all the pieces together.’
The BBC hit is a genealogy series in which well-known people trace their family tree.
Since 2004, this program has been on the air, and season 21 commenced in August featuring actress Vicky McClure.
Each episode of Who Do You Think You Are? centres on one British celebrity.
For over two decades now, I’ve been following the journey of uncovering family roots on Who Do You Think You Are?, a captivating series that has delved into the past of individuals like Adil Ray, Kate Winslet, Jeremy Clarkson, Barbara Windsor, Stephen Fry, J. K. Rowling, Daniel Radcliffe, and numerous others.
Gemma expressed her joy over the prospect of potentially being a relative of the infamous serial killer, Jack the Ripper.
Unidentified individual, known as Britain’s most infamous serial killer, claimed the lives of five women and instilled fear throughout London during 1888. Despite his crimes, he remained elusive and was never apprehended.
And Gemma thinks she’s uncovered who Jack the Ripper truly was, and she’s positively certain there’s a family connection between them.
On “Who Do You Think You Are?”, she became certain about the connection after uncovering her forebears who resided on Dorset Street, East London – a place notorious for being the scene where Jack left some of his victim’s gruesome remains.
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2024-09-27 00:34