Irena and Locky Gilbert open up about heartbreaking second miscarriage 

“It was emotional, hard and obviously heartbreaking.”

After meeting and falling in love on The Bachelor in early 2020, Irena Srbinovska and Locky Gilbert tied the knot earlier this year.

The couple, who are both 33, have been open about their desire to start a family but unfortunately the pair have experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage for a second time. Their first pregnancy loss was in the first year of their relationship.

“We’ve been trying to get pregnant and try to start our family and we were absolutely over the moon when we found out we were pregnant last month,” Irena shared to 7Life.

“Unfortunately, a week later we suffered a miscarriage, and… it was emotional, hard and obviously heartbreaking. It was a very unfortunate experience and a sad time for us.”

Irena says going through a miscarriage can be a lonley experience for women.

“Obviously other women go through it, one in four pregnancies unfortunately result in a miscarriage, but you feel alone and like you’re by yourself,” she says.

“Going through this, I’ve learned that you’re not going through it alone.”

Sharing her own experience, Irena has partnered with Red Nose Day to support others going through a loss of a baby or child in pregnancy, infancy or childhood.   

Sharing an Instagram post announcing the partnership, Irena wrote: “I am so proud to say that I have joined the Red Nose Day family as their official ambassador for their 35th Red Nose Day this August.”

She continued: “Unfortunately the timing of this announcement has come only weeks after Locky and I suffered another miscarriage which has only made me more eager to join and raise awareness for the cause.

“Like most Australians, I have grown up with Red Nose Day but what many of you may not know is that they offer support to people that have been impacted by miscarriage.”

In Australia, one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage, which is estimated to be about 100,000 annually.

“And after talking to my friends and family about my experience I have realised just how many families are impacted by miscarriages,” says Irena.

“As a nurse and as a woman who hopes to be a mother someday I hope that my story helps someone out there. I hope that by sharing my experience of miscarriage other women may feel less alone. Many people are not aware that Red Nose offers support for people impacted by miscarriage, so if my story helps just one person access the support they need, at least some ‘good’ can come from a very sad situation.”

In the comments section of Irena’s post, Locky wrote: “My wonder women, so so so lucky to have you in my life babe. Can’t explain how strong and supportive you are. So proud of you for putting your self out there and taking about this. Can’t wait for our little family together.”

To access the free 24/7 National Red Nose support line, call 1300 308 307 or visit www.rednosegriefandloss.org.au

To make a donation to help continue these vital services visit www.rednoseday.org.au