For the first time, the project manager from Victoria is opening up exclusively to Woman’s Day about losing her older brother Matthew to suicide seven years ago in hopes to shine a light on stigma surrounding depression and anxiety.
Laura and Matthew were extremely close.
“I’ve found it really difficult to in the last seven years to talk about it. That was one of the reasons why I wanted to go on the show was to open myself up a bit more because I’ve been closed about it all,” Laura, who was evicted from the Bachelor mansion on the second episode, explains.
“Matthew was my protector. He was so loving and warm and we lost him too early.”
Relive last week’s Bachelor episode. Post continues after the video…
But this isn’t the first time Laura has lost someone she loves.
“My first ever boyfriend was the love of my life and he tragically passed away a few years ago. I’ve had love and I’ve had heartbreak at the same time.”
And while they both may not be here, Laura knows they’re watching.
“Matt will always be my guardian angel. He would be telling me to be myself and laughing at me.”
If you, or anybody you know needs support or information about suicide prevention contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit Beyond Blue
“Matthew was my protector. He was so loving and warm and we lost him too early,” Laura tells us.
