In a profoundly moving and candid revelation, Kimberley Walsh has shared the heart-wrenching final promise the Girls Aloud members made to their beloved bandmate, Sarah Harding, in her last days.
The pop star, who tragically lost her battle with breast cancer in September 2021 at the age of 39, was surrounded by her closest friends and family. Walsh describes the group's collective vow to ensure Sarah's legacy and memory would be fiercely protected and celebrated.
A Bond Forged in Pop Stardom
Walsh, now 42, spoke with immense affection about the unique and unbreakable bond formed between the five women—Harding, Walsh, Cheryl Tweedy, Nadine Coyle, and Nicola Roberts—during their meteoric rise to fame on ITV's 'Popstars: The Rivals' in 2002.
She reflected on the two decades of shared history, the incredible highs of number-one singles and sold-out arena tours, and the unwavering support they offered each other through personal struggles long after the band initially split.
The Final Farewell
The conversation turns sombre as Walsh recounts the group's final moments with Sarah. She emphasises that their primary focus was on providing comfort, love, and reassurance.
"We wanted her to know, without a shadow of a doubt, that we would always be there for her and that her spirit would live on through us," Walsh shared. The promise was not just one of emotional support but a concrete commitment to keeping Sarah's vibrant and fearless personality alive in the world.
Honouring a Legacy: The Race for Life
True to their word, the girls have thrown their weight behind causes dear to Sarah. Walsh highlights their participation in Race for Life, a series of events raising crucial funds for Cancer Research UK.
She describes the experience of participating without Sarah as "bittersweet" but underscores its importance. "It's what she would have wanted. She was always so passionate about helping others, and we are determined to continue that fight in her name."
The band's efforts, alongside Sarah's own memoir, 'Hear Me Out', have already contributed to a significant surge in awareness and donations for cancer research, a fitting tribute to their courageous friend.
