Kelsey Parker's statement in full as she announces 'earth-shattering' loss of baby son

Podcast host Kelsey Parker has announced the tragic loss of her son, whom she's named Phoenix. She shared the news with fans on social media earlier this evening and included a poem that she had written for him in her post.

Kelsey, 34, who was expecting her third child, whom she's said was stillborn, with her partner Will Lindsay. Her family includes her children Aurelia, five, and Bodhi, four, whose father is the late Tom Parker, who died, aged 33, in 2022.

Announcing the news, Kelsey wrote on Instagram this evening: "Phoenix Parker-Lindsay, you will forever be loved." She included a poem For Phoenix in the post, which appeared to be titled Born Sleeping, Forever Loved.

The poem shared by Kelsey began: "The world grew quiet as you arrived. So loved, so longed for, yet not alive. Our precious boy, our angel light. Born with wings, took silent flight."

It continued: "We named you Phoenix, brave and bright. A soul of love, of warmth and light. Though we never heard you cry, you'll live in hearts that won't ask why."

Kelsey's poem for her late son concluded: "No breath you drew, no eyes to see. Still, you mean everything to me. You'll journey with us, softly near. In every sigh, in every tear."

Then, in a message on her Instagram Story, Kelsey told her followers that the family needs time to process the news. She began by writing: "Before I receive an influx of lovely messages and heartfelt wishes, I wanted to just say that I truly appreciate everything you are all going to say and share.

She continued: "But with the news being so raw, I would really like to ensure that we as a family are given space and time to process this devastating and earth-shattering news. I love you all and thank you for your understanding and space. Love always, Kelsey, Will, and the Parker Family."

Kelsey has been met with condolences over the news this weekend. Giovanna Fletcher responded to the initial post in the comments section earlier: "A beautiful name for a beautiful soul. I'm so sorry for your loss Kelsey."

Paul C. Brunson said: "Kelsey, I'm heartbroken for you. Over the last year, I've had the privilege of getting to know your strength, your grace, and the immense love you carry. This loss is beyond words. I'm holding you and your family in my heart. May you feel surrounded by love as you begin to heal."

Amy Dowden reacted: "Sending you so much love." Whilst Shaughna Phillips said: "Oh Kelsey I am so sorry, heartbroken for you all. There are no words." Candice Brown wrote: "I can't even begin to imagine right now. I am so sorry Kelsey."

Kelsey and Will had announced that they were expecting a baby together in January. She shared at the time that she had been "shocked but so happy" to discover that she was pregnant and teased that her partner "cried his eyes out".

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Sands (stillbirth and neonatal death charity). You can call them on 0808 164 3332 or email helpline@sands.org.uk. If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at childbereavementuk.org or you can call them on 0800 02 888 40.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Threads.