Stacey Dooley's heartbroken tribute to co-star who died

Virgin Radio

4 Aug 2023, 14:28

Stacey Dooley has paid tribute to her documentary co-star following her death aged 29.

The renowned documentary presenter and former Strictly star , is mourning the loss of her dear co-star, Jemma McGowan, who tragically passed away last week.

Stacey Dooley and Jemma developed a close bond while working together on an episode of Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over titled Mum Fighting the Clock.

Jemma was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016 while six weeks pregnant with her second child.

Taking to social media to express her grief, Stacey shared heartfelt tributes in honour of her late friend.

“Fly high darlin'. Thank you for being so kind and so so FUN. Thinking of her Clive and her gorgeous babies.” Stacey shared on instagram, alongside behind the scenes footage from their appearance together.

She added in stories: "Just heartbreaking. Jemma was a joy to work alongside and we continued our relationship as pals. Coincidentally, our film airs this evening where we reflect on our time spent with Jemma. She knew it was coming out in August and was keen to hear all about it. Fly high darlin.”

She also described Jemma as kind, fun, and a true joy to be around.

Stacey's touching messages conveyed the warmth of their friendship and the impact Jemma had on her life.

In a poignant twist of fate, the documentary featuring Jemma's story was set to air in August, and she eagerly awaited its release.

Stacey's post about their film was especially touching, as it was an opportunity for them to reflect on their time together.

Jemma lived in Omagh, Northern Ireland, with her husband Clive and their three children: Sadie, Louis, and Betty.

She wrote in February: “So , our secret is out. I made a new forever friend @sjdooley and we made a tv documentary together."

She continued: "It really was an emotional rollercoaster as after being begged by warren the producer (jokes )we invited a tv camera crew, tv producers among others and the beautiful @sjdooley in to our home for a 4 day sleepover.

"Stacey was such a pleasure to have as our guest (the whole team actually just fitted right in, made themselves at home and made it so easy), I genuinely cried when she was leaving! She opened my heart and mind to things I hadn’t yet considered or planned or thought about."

Despite a previous surgery and being told her cancer wouldn't return, Jemma faced a devastating turn of events when she discovered a lump during her third pregnancy in January 2021. It was later diagnosed as stage 4 ovarian cancer.

Speaking to Belfast Telegraph in 2021 Jemma spoke on her diagnosis: "My cancer is acting very unusually and aggressively and has no documented cases reported in the medical journals, which makes it difficult for my oncology team to know exactly the best course of treatment or a prognosis.

“We knew it wasn’t looking good. On Monday I was advised to get my affairs in order and was told it is reasonable to believe I have only one year to live.

“How with three small children can I accept that? I simply can't. I am such a positive person, I live for my family and I have such a zest for life. I need to be here to see my wee babies grow up and to be their mummy.

“I am terrified. I’m good all day until night when I see my babies sleeping and then I break my heart as I know I can’t leave them.”

She had found an alternative treatment clinic in Mexico to aid her in a the battle of the cancer and started a GoFundMe appeal to cover the £70,000 initial costs of the treatment.

Over £107,000 was donated on the first day alone.

The news of Jemma's passing has left not only Stacey but also many fans heartbroken. Her courageous journey and the special bond she formed with Stacey during their time together will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her. Jemma's legacy as an inspiration and a beloved friend lives on in the hearts of those she touched.