Martine McCutcheon thanks fans for their support after tragic loss of her younger brother
MARTINE McCutcheon has thanked her fans for their ‘amazing’ support following the sudden death of her younger brother.
, 46, today revealed her brother LJ - Laurence John - passed away with "no medical explanation" at the age of 31.
Martine took to social media once again this evening, to show her gratitude to her followers for the outpouring of love.
She wrote: “Thank you for your amazing messages of love and support regarding the loss of my brother LJ.
“They mean the world to me and my family.”
She went on to ask for privacy, explaining: “Due to my job, I also have to bear in the mind the press interest and I naturally want to protect my family at this time.
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“I wanted to share a true and fitting tribute to LJ’s life before anything was written or speculated in the press. However LJ has a whole family grieving and whilst I had to address it, we do also need time to grieve and heal.”
Martine broke the tragic news on today - along with two photos of her and her sibling.
She wrote: "My heart is forever broken…
"My baby brother, my gentle giant, sadly passed away, suddenly, 2 weeks ago. He was 31 years old.
"There is no medical explanation as to why we lost him so soon and whilst we investigate further, we are having to accept that nothing will bring our boy back to us."
Martine told how her little brother was due to get married next month.
She explained: "I was asked to be bridesmaid and the last time I saw him, was a few days before he passed.
"He, Jack and his future stepson had been to try on their wedding suits and then they came back to have dinner with his fiancee and the family to see our new home.
"He looked so tanned, tall and handsome. The best I've ever seen him. Ironic really.
"My heart aches for all who have lost him. But my heart breaks for our mum, his dad John and his step parents. You should never outlive your children.
"I'm scared to live without you LJ but I know you will want us to truly live, laugh and love in your memory. I will try I promise".
Messages of support came from friends such as broadcaster Clara Amfo, reality TV personality Billie Faiers and singer and presenter Myleene Klass.
It comes after Martine posted a rare pic of the pair last year and said how "proud" she was after his struggles.
Alongside the moving photo, she wrote: "Happy 30th Birthday to my little (big) brother LJ!
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"I'm so proud of all you have achieved and who you have become - Against the odds."
Martine opened up about her brother's battle with his "special needs" and his determination to lead a "normal life".
She continued: ";You arrived into my world when I was 15 and I adored you from the moment I first held you.
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"You've battled at times with your special needs and have had your struggles but you were always determined to live a normal life, have a good job, fall in love and get married.
"The things so many take for granted were your biggest dreams and now it's all coming true for you! I'm so thrilled for you!"
