Love Island star and Lewisham doctor Alex George has shared his reflections on the last decade and the death of his brother, ahead of his 30th birthday today (February 15).
The 30-year-old A&E doc posted a series of updates to his personal Instagram page of his “milestone moments" from his 20s, which included a picture of him with his brother Llŷr, who tragically took his own life in July 2020 after struggling with his mental health.
The 2018 Love Island contestant wrote: “On Monday I enter a new decade of my life, so I sat down to put together some photos that symbolised important moments in my 20s. A few things struck me, first of all there aren’t that many photos in my early 20s.
“Looking back I think I lacked confidence, probably because of struggles with acne and I avoided the camera. One of the things I have learnt in the last 10 years is to be comfortable and confident in my own skin, to love who I am, with all my flaws. You are not defined by how you look. Health and happiness is what matters.
(@dralexgeorge/Instagram)
“I also noticed that other than my graduation day and my recent appointment, the things I really hold dear are the people around me, not my achievements. To my friends and family who have stood by me through the ups and the downs, thank you, I love each and every one of you.
“I am proud of who I am and what I believe in. As I look forward to my 30s, I do so with optimism that we can build a future where happiness, wellbeing and health is the priority for us all.
“I will do everything I can to help on this journey and bring real change.”
(@dralexgeorge/Instagram)
In a heartbreaking tribute to his brother, Llŷr, he added:
“Having to move into a new decade without Llŷr is so hard but I know he is with me in spirit, giving me the energy and strength to keep going.
“The last year has taught me a very valuable lesson, you only get one life and you never know what is around the corner.
“Live life and make the most of every moment. I want to travel more (when I can), spend more time with friends and family (can’t wait) and enjoy my passions (going to buy my dream car- hell).
(@dralexgeorge/Instagram)
“Thank you to all of you for being on this journey with me. I started my 20s with 180 followers I know have a community of 1.8 million. Thank you to each and every one of you. To the next decade.”
Among the images he posted were pictures of himself with hospital colleagues amid the coronavirus pandemic, as well as pictures of himself at Swansea’s football ground and holidaying in Dubai.
He also posted a picture with his hospital colleagues after working on the frontline amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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