Real Housewives of Orange County alum Laura Peterson continues to mourn the death of her son, Josh Waring.
In a new social media post, Peterson, 63, gave a glimpse into her grieving process by reposting a picture of flowers first taken by her daughter. Sophia Waring.
“Saddest day of my life,” Peterson wrote on her Instagram Stories on Thursday, April 11. “The Lord has you in his hand.”
In a separate post, Sophia added: “May you finally be free and at peace Josh.”
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On April 6, Peterson first confirmed the news that her son had died on Easter Sunday. He was 35.
“No one can ever prepare you for the feeling of such profound loss,” Peterson wrote on Instagram on April 6. “Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh has fought for his life every day for most of his adult life, but this past Sunday the challenge was too great.”
The former Bravo star continued, “Josh’s childhood was filled with deep intellect, humor, pranks, track and field, snowboarding, bodyboarding mountain hikes, reading, friends and his love of music.” Even through adversity as an adult, Josh maintained his sense of humor Maintained a sense of humor, remained optimistic, continued to be kind to others, defended those who couldn’t defend themselves, and continued to love his family so much!”
An official cause of death is not yet known, other than Josh’s sister Ashley Zarlin believes addiction played a role in his death.
“I lost my brother to the unrelenting grip of addiction,” she wrote on Instagram on April 6. “It’s a disease that distorts and destroys, leaving behind shattered dreams and broken hearts. “He was brilliant and had limitless potential, but addiction took him off course.”
Peterson appeared on RHOC between seasons 1 and 4. She left the series in 2008 after Josh was arrested for heroin possession and being under the influence.
“I firmly believe that drug addiction is a genetic disease. He was wired for it and he has it,” Peterson said Orange County Register by the time. “Of course I think the media sensationalized his drug use. I think the inaccurate reports do him an injustice. But Josh’s problems existed long before reality shows. He loved doing the show.”
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Since Josh’s death, Peterson has received support from her Bravo colleagues, including Jeana Keough, Vicki Gunvalson, Tamra Judge And I De La Rosa.
“Lauri, I’m so sorry. This is heartbreaking,” Andy Cohen wrote in the comments section of Lauri’s post. “You tried so hard to save him and by sharing Josh’s story you would educate people around the world about the tragedy of addiction for those affected by it. May Josh’s memory always be a blessing to you. I send all my love to your family.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, reach out Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline. at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).