Credit: Instagram
Lydia McLaughlin revealed the secret health battle that took the life of her mother, Judy Stirling, on her Instagram Story days ago.
Weeks after announcing that Judy had passed away at the age of 76 with an emotional tribute post on social media, the 43-year-old Real Housewives of Orange County alum confirmed her mother’s diagnosis, sharing with her fans and followers that her mom had struggled for years with cancer.
“My mom battled breast cancer for many years,” Lydia wrote on her Instagram Story on October 23, via Us Weekly. “She lived 2 years longer than her Drs expected. … She was very private about being sick, she never wanted that to be part of her identity. She is the strongest person I’ve ever met and I have learned so much walking with her through this journey.”
According to Lydia, who appeared on seasons eight and 12 of RHOC, producers found out about Judy’s cancer diagnosis at the end of season 12 but “were very kind” and did not share the news publicly.
“My mom was my best friend. She was my favorite,” Lydia continued. “She was our world. I am so thankful to be her daughter. I feel so close to the Lord through this journey and I have no doubt she is throwing glitter in heaven. My heart is broken she isn’t with us anymore.”
In an October 9 post about Judy, Lydia had written, “My mom passed away last night. We are heart broken but we know she’s dancing with Jesus. Fairdust, confetti bombs and crowns like heaven has never seen before. What’s in the cat is in the kitten and I promise to continue to make you proud.”
Two weeks later, Lydia shared another post on Instagram as she and her family hosted a glitter and confetti-filled celebration of life in her mom’s honor.
“We celebrated my beautiful moms life this weekend with a lot of love, confetti and glitter,” she wrote in the caption of an Instagram video at the time. “I find it difficult to put into words my broken heart. I am thankful for the outpouring of love and support. I am grateful to not grieve alone. I am honored to be her daughter and will forever carry her in my spirit.”
Since Judy’s passing, Lydia has found strength in her faith.
“I’m not an expert, but there’s no formula to grieve,” she explained. “Be patient with yourself and let yourself feel all your feelings. One moment I’m ok, and the next I cry. … I am convinced I will be reunited with my mom. I know God is close to the broken hearted and He is close to me. He is close to you. Lean into His presence.”
In addition to appearing alongside Lydia on RHOC, Judy was also featured in their short-lived web series, Glitter Town, which launched in 2020.
