Disclaimer: This article tackles topics such as mental health and grief. Reader discretion is advised.

Grief is a complex emotion everyone has to deal with.

It's a moment that no one is ever truly prepared for and one that tugs anyone's heartstrings.

A former 7News Melbourne mainstay shared a deeply personal and heartbreaking update and how she processes her emotions.

Weather presenter Sonia Marinelli revealed that her mother was in her final days after a long and difficult battle with dementia.

Sonia, who recently stepped away from her high-profile role at Seven, took to social media to share the news.

She posted a touching photo of herself and two of her children holding hands with her mother as she lay in hospital.

The image, filled with love and sorrow, was accompanied by a raw and honest write-up that resonated with many.

Sonia Marinelli has been away from 7News Melbourne since February. Image Credit: Instagram/Sonia Marinelli

'My mum is dying and will soon take her last breath. It's been a long farewell,' Sonia wrote.

'The grieving process and loss started many years ago when it became clear that dementia was robbing us of the mum we knew and loved.'

'Her brain became so fragile that this was inevitable. Even so, this is a pain so unbearable, like nothing I have experienced,' she added.

Dementia is a cruel disease that could slowly erase the person you once knew.

Sonia's words captured the unique heartbreak of losing a loved one twice, first to the illness and again in their final moments.

She continued, 'Her body is strong, and she continues to fight. True to her spirit right to the end.'

'She was always so determined and carried herself with dignity. I adored my mum.'

Sonia's post was not just a tribute to her mother's strength and spirit.

'Please keep my dad, sister, brother and her grandchildren in your thoughts as mum makes this transition into the afterlife,' she wrote further.

'I will stay snuggled up next to her warm body, where I always felt profoundly loved and safe, until the end.'

This devastating news came months after Sonia announced her departure from the Seven Melbourne newsroom.

In February, she shared that she and her husband, Chris Stanko, would be taking their family up the East Coast for a fresh start.

'After spending most of my TV news career talking about our weather, I'm excited to get out and actually enjoy it with those I love most,' she said at the time.

Marinelli shared a heartfelt photo with her mum and children on social media. Image Credit: Instagram/Sonia Marinelli

Support from Sonia's friends, colleagues, and fans was immediate and heartfelt.

Several personalities, such as AFL WAG Bec Judd, fellow 7News stars Estelle Gnepink and Melina Sarris, and even Seven Chief Sports Presenter Rebecca Maddern, left messages of condolence and encouragement to Sonia.

Their words echoed the sentiments of so many who have faced similar losses.

Sonia's story was, sadly, one that many Australians know all too well.

Dementia affects nearly half a million people in Australia and has profound impacts towards families.

It's a journey marked by grief, resilience, and love.

For many, the process of saying goodbye begins long before the final moments, as the disease slowly changes the person.

For many seniors, Sonia's story may bring back memories of their own experiences with dementia or the loss of a parent.

It's a reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment, supporting one another, and reaching out for help when needed.

Key Takeaways

• Former 7News Melbourne presenter Sonia Marinelli shared the heartbreaking news that her mother is dying after a long battle with dementia.
• She posted an emotional tribute for her mother online, describing the years-long grieving process and the unbearable pain her family has been experiencing.
• Friends, colleagues, and other TV personalities showed their support during this difficult time.
• The sad update came shortly after she departed from the Seven Network to relocate with her family up the East Coast.

If you or someone you know is caring for a loved one with dementia, support is available. Dementia Australia and Carers Australia have resources for those who care for dementia patients. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.

 

[Towing]

To her family and friends please do not forget her. Keep in touch occasionally. The first year or so after you lose a loved one is hard, especially on dates of special significance. After a few weeks people don't bother to keep in touch and often don't return your calls either. Sometimes you need somebody to talk to.

 

[natalielocket]

Yes, having been a AN in Age Care, I always thought that a Family having to deal with a loved one with Dementia, it is death twice. Loss of them as a Person, then the final death. My Heart goes out to Families who have to deal with it.

 

[Towing]

Yes, it is very difficult especially if your loved one doesn't recognise you in any way. I was fortunate that my Mother remembered me still only a week before she passed away when her kidneys failed