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EastEnders star Simone Lahbib is urging fans to ‘make every moment count’ after her brother’s death.
The actress’ sibling, Stephen, passed away in November 2024, six months after a terminal cancer diagnosis.
Simone, who played Katy Lewis in EastEnders, announced the sad death of Stephen in an emotional Instagram update back in November 2024.
She has now spoke of her family’s experience with his palliative care as she works to support Strathcarron Hospice in Denny, Scotland.
Simone paid tribute to her ‘sociable and very talented’ brother who she misses ‘more than words’ as the hospice celebrates its 45th anniversary.
As part of it’s What Makes Life Meaningful campaign, she said: ‘Strathcarron’s Hospice at Home team was invaluable toward the end.’
EastEnders star Simone Lahbib is urging fans to ‘make every moment count’ after her brother’s death
The actress’ sibling, Stephen, passed away in November 2024, six months after a terminal cancer diagnosis
Simone continued: ‘They were so lovely, understanding and supportive. It was a very difficult, distressing time and we came to rely on them.
‘When the time came for Stephen to be admitted to the Hospice, I imagined that it would be more hospital-like and sterile, with nurses who were caring and efficient but overstretched.
‘But the staff made not only Stephen, but his family and friends feel welcome and important.
‘Stephen was a very sociable man. I believe he made some good friends during his time there.
‘The kindness and support continued towards our family, even after his death. Stephen was not only cared for at Strathcarron Hospice – he was loved. My family and I can’t thank them all enough for all they did.
‘Like Stephen I’ve always loved and cared for my family and friends as a priority. Since his death, I’m more aware of how precious and fragile life is.
‘Stephen wanted to make every moment count and in his music he lives on. It will be treasured forever and played often.
‘He loved his family and friends before anything else. His biggest passion though was his music. He was a singer, songwriter as well as a very talented graphic designer.’
Simone, who played Katy Lewis in EastEnders, announced the sad death of Stephen in an emotional Instagram update back in November 2024 (pictured on the soap in 2021)
She paid tribute to her ‘sociable and very talented’ brother who she misses ‘more than words’ as Strathcarron Hospice celebrates its 45th anniversary
The hospice added: ‘For Stephen, meaning came from connection. Time with family and friends. Music. Singing. Moments of joy, even in the hardest days.’
Announcing her brother’s death back in November 2024, she shared a series of photos as he played with his band to Instagram.
She wrote: ‘We lost a beautiful soul in the early hours on Saturday 2nd November. My gorgeous, talented, troubled, sweet hearted brother Stephen.’
Simone concluded: ‘Such a talented singer, songwriter and graphic designer. Please check out his band ‘Mama Mayhem’ on Spotify soon.
‘RIP darlin. I’ll miss you more than words.’
