Coleen Nolan, known for her role on Loose Women, has opened up about her ongoing feelings of guilt since the passing of her sister, Bernie Nolan, in 2013. Bernie, a beloved member of the singing group The Nolans, succumbed to breast cancer at the age of 52.
In a recent interview with Woman’s Own, Coleen revealed how she often experiences waves of guilt, especially when she’s enjoying herself with friends. “Even though my sister Bernie died in 2013, there will be times when I’m really laughing about something and this guilt suddenly hits me, like I’ve forgotten her,” she confessed.
Grief, Coleen emphasized, is a natural process that everyone must navigate in their own way. Despite the passage of time, Bernie remains a daily presence in Coleen’s thoughts. This profound connection is why Coleen chooses not to publicly commemorate major anniversaries or birthdays on social media.
Reflecting on Bernie’s impact, Coleen shared that her sister’s passion and leadership as the lead singer of The Nolans were defining factors in her decision to step away from touring with the group. “She was The Nolans,” Coleen affirmed, underscoring Bernie’s integral role.
Recalling Bernie’s final moments, Coleen fondly described a poignant family gathering at Bernie’s bedside. “When we started singing, she went ‘urgh’ with her hand and I went ‘cheeky b****’, she’s still telling us we’re out of tune,” Coleen reminisced with a mix of laughter and bittersweet nostalgia.
The Nolan family has faced multiple battles with cancer. Coleen’s elder sister, Anne, battled cancer twice, while Linda continues to live with incurable secondary cancer that has spread to her brain and liver. Coleen herself underwent treatment for basal cell carcinoma last year, highlighting the family’s ongoing health struggles.
As Coleen navigates life after Bernie’s passing, she remains grounded by cherished memories and a profound sense of loss. Her candid reflections serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of loved ones lost and the complexities of grief.
