Gabriella Ferlita
Katie Piper is the queen of sharing open, honest and downright inspirational stories.
And the Loose Women presenter is back at it again - this time earning well-deserved praise from her followers as she shared a very real post as her acid attacker went on the run.
Taking to Instagram on Sunday, the 38-year-old broadcaster reposted a photo of two burns survivors, Catrin Pugh and Raiché Mederick, with an important message about ‘redefining beauty’ and normalising differing appearances.
In conjunction with The Katie Piper Foundation, Katie explained how both women joined forces ‘so we could explore the concept of finding oneness in our differences’.
“The role of finding our community, our tribe in helping us navigate the parody of life,” Katie continued in part of the post.
Advert
"Together these two amazing women have and are continuing to help redefine 'beauty' and normalise facial differences in this world.”
Beneath her post - which detailed how ‘96% of Catrin’s body suffered third-degree burns’ in a coach accident while Raiché was burned in a house fire - Katie’s following soon flocked to the comments section to share their appreciation for the honest and inspiring post.
One follower called Karen wrote beneath the post: “Inspirational women to many other people who have and who will suffer with burns and just generally being them and amazing,” while another onlooker wrote: “Beautiful strong ladies both showing that you can achieve so much when you put your mind to it.”
“Really brave women to pick themselves up & live their lives,” another follower dded, while someone else penned: “Strong, courageous women.”
Katie’s post came just hours before authorities confirmed her attacker Stefan Sylvestre was on the loose after being recalled to prison for being in breach of his licence conditions.
Sylvestre was put on parole in 2020, 12 years after launching his acid assault on Piper based on orders from her ex-boyfriend Daniel Lynch.
He attacked Katie in Golders Green, North London in 2008, and has been warned he could be facing further jail time after fleeing while on licence.
Following the awful attack, Katie has since undergone leading facial reconstruction surgery to restore her skin and vision.
She has now inspired a movement with her bravery and ability to turn the traumatic event into a force for good by launching her own foundation for survivors of burns and scars.
If you are an adult survivor of burns or a friend, family member, or carer, you can contact The Katie Piper Foundation for support between 9am and 5pm on 0300 365 0055. In an emergency, always dial 999