# TOP RATED | Simon Thomas: Sudden Loss, Grief and Alcohol Addiction

An episode of [On The Mend](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1697309091), 15 Oct 2026, 57 min.

Audio: https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/68404e4cf2fbdde542c290b2/e/69ea3f5466c3374f7e361e7b/media.mp3

Sky Sports presenter Simon Thomas delivers one of the most raw and honest accounts of grief and addiction ever shared in the public eye. Following the sudden death of his wife, Gemma, Simon faced a years-long battle with secret drinking while navigating the pressures of public life and parenthood. In this episode, he exposes the "release valve" of alcohol that promised an escape but led to a darker reality. Simon also shares the complexities of finding love again with his partner Doina, the crushing weight of "being strong," and the powerful realization that while life will never be the same, it can, and will, be good again. This episode covers the following themes: Grief, Addiction, Resilience, Fatherhood, and Recovery. Need Support? Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org Narcotics Anonymous: na.org Alcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Mental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.uk Shout: https: giveusashout.org IAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Heights👉 Join Matt in getting your energy back with Vitals. 20% off here: https://highpfrmc.com/au3-OTM20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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